tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37586156151763580202024-02-19T01:15:14.466-08:00Tour de Dog: David Sylvester and ChivaRaising awareness about the challenges and problems animals shelters and control facilities face and improving their images and capabilities.Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-36389246812931129982008-11-20T09:36:00.001-08:002008-11-20T09:44:26.940-08:00Lots of Memories<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7Ehz6mipPgm5cMMyJVDNtR7v5Tyx4V5HidRQdOle5_klUd1TBqBaAzBMPYBpIvrNYrhEo-d2NprnOlfXIAHJqvJSSsimtgbER3LTeR-HJvWiIN4hhoKxq4mPWUGWZkXsMid7kgPQcKJ6/s1600-h/chivagrass"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270796259528631202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7Ehz6mipPgm5cMMyJVDNtR7v5Tyx4V5HidRQdOle5_klUd1TBqBaAzBMPYBpIvrNYrhEo-d2NprnOlfXIAHJqvJSSsimtgbER3LTeR-HJvWiIN4hhoKxq4mPWUGWZkXsMid7kgPQcKJ6/s400/chivagrass" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYzVga9Dt789AyjHMta9e7RGprYr8UZfdX4L16GdVl6Pjx0xsXNfWQqNwSeRavyvP8VarQclGS3wz6KWnWKpZg5zc5AhvTt5v2vp4ryStdnDG7_s1fRnr3jJWiiU7eqkZTc6Jh1Mc4d12l/s1600-h/lostcoast"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270796196519163506" style="DISPLAY: block; 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MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSLT_dmKB96zJwYfpMbZHpS8iNR4QqMjc-bBBWjRK5v3wIlRVT8CDxGZlsY9U7v8Afe2RbLBi6e0ooTd2xHcLMMmet2GTJAnngXXZUSBNQRQIX4TyIqBPFQJ_MWwDeJzzUOTtYXJyDGST/s400/Chivayawn.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-57461316086244268542008-10-09T03:51:00.000-07:002008-10-12T10:24:05.204-07:00A Pitbull Rescue in the Bronx<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255108307006931218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2QBDS2C4NSSxt5PKYFPr2ZEf_-8-sL4H9kdxHRMXLdor6fDNqBz4o5rcyI7yO8MiTn0w60fIRozgHwc9I7RuMqZRMKdthyphenhyphen2l8xd-1FII1LkZOd8qexzBl7xTVU27QbcuWRUckidHLKaJ/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+090.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div><div><div>At the heart of the Big Apple's animal rescue efforts is the city and donation funded <a href="http://www.nycacc.org/index.htm">Animal Care and Control of New York City</a> (AC&C). The AC&C is the largest pet organization in the northeastern United States and takes in some 44,000 animals annually.</div><br /><div>When I visited the AC&C, I had the unique opportunity to spend an afternoon with a field operation's control officer named Robert. Robert's job is to respond to the public's phone calls in all five NYC burroughs and pick up 1) animals that threaten the safety of the public, 2) stray or homeless animals, and 3) wildlife that is injured.<br /></div><br /><div>During the course of the afternoon, Robert and I attended several animals in dire need of assistance.</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255115764637283522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwGTo29iZ7RvVx7yk7S2OmN_ZwC2ErpmuVWhorfNHlkwP7XdXFcgvuh199XQmXKlIggueEKidtYYDhb39cyPzJ4QvMaDo2AsGA7uvqnBPdkQuXuOlR_B-u_dVH6mBBHXP_JchJu0WiAo_i/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+129.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>The first call was from the Bronx. A man had been shot and critally injured. His dog, a male, unneutered pit bull, had been left confined in his apartment for nearly a week. When Robert and I arrived on the scene, we were greeted by fellow animal control officer, Nelson. This call was definitely a two person job.<br /></div><div>Behind the door we could hear the fierce barking of a protective yet terrified pit bull. After carefully entering the apartment, we were able to create barriers that limited where the animal could go. Nelson and Robert were then able to capture the beautiful pitbull using a safe and humane stick and noose device.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255112875701058386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj387OGmeaZsD7Ppfsb2rDQ3LhmBHf0k6m7sdJfQvmhBolVb85a8PQbm5YQ673qeBPP265XCVUlQvn43M4_dTcr1-A7Pqb_XnFSokWo-ypKvdO5mvlJbzKZbct_dczJpW6pSBJ58An2e1Os/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+098.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255113073711609298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-UGPImEzBXpg7gSIhtijskEo7IRL_RSwsF7efEnUOV38YgqJZtAFRNviGtlyfAsv-qivvuhJ1doLvEDxOPn3xGQInuSC0xKJiFNIhzkKF7gcvBf65z3660q1sFNuWviY1-HWazvfLD6-/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+102.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255112442603699170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_19zBMwu_Apnxxq2vPqBCYv9iYasawR6nfobUFh6wvSEWWJSnI0DRPua0aRnFecmPQ_-s4FHZhhKzJUmP71F59TyYBcR-lmOGxCrCZGd4kXXhQ6pSzUwjNRpHLJ0YSKQ0K8PM5Nw1OkS2/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+113.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div><br /></div><div>Although the rescue was an eye-opener for me, it was simply another day's work for Robert and Nelson. The two have time and time again tracked down stranded and homesless animals.</div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255113183598308306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8gjTXTxSE12BE9D24U5-VCB2f-3yhlqb6tOIoniJbwW0LIabUlBM0C6YCOEZjY_xPLXzQlnw95zEjgroTL05iXDBiMcd3Nnj6VktT0NQ-scEHq5NJ-Vcg0yLOwFQgFu7ziMc9hWm_LoV/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+104.jpg" border="0" /> Conditions in the apartment were horrendous, and feces were everywhere.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255113943117679522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYoKoPOQhvOrrNd8nC9DB6CfXPakOqk-_dD4i_i_uQ3hcY3aQWBpmF5kRGOz1DHSCwvH3FMNcRbJFRJrh3_MMwlRLHVshZo7LKK0ZwEpzQp_IiGbK_kNmyfjAj4pMKunwakoGZb5Qh4vZ/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+122.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div><br /><p align="center">The dog was starving and gulped down everything we fed him.</p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5255113578751972146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLSTi-j7D1sPrmqIpLkfyfnGeGbXqMMPoJ0tBwU4foYy6_e6KCV-Vkw1W18GLS6Q5sijWjecZDyWGLeX5tMNFIIag6EVnjtNfHD9Ko_Qxu0gaGH_h5XNjgUlXErtstC71qw2W9oCg-w8y/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+114.jpg" border="0" />The good news is that both Robert and Nelson thought the pit bull had a great chance of find a good home. It he passes the AC&C evaluation, they will place him for adoption.</p><p>Click here to view a short video about the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LD9p9UO7feU">AC&C of New York City</a>.</p><p>A special thank you to Robert, Nelson, and the AC&C team for welcoming me.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>David</p>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-72029059515930101592008-10-07T03:47:00.000-07:002008-10-07T06:04:34.236-07:00Tour de Shelters in New York City<div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254365689127064658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh48agTeGk7xlv88pcA9kk8EaUhyjao4X06yrzq3TiIqwqKFZYYlhXlDemEXiHnJ_44L988i35g4kYxdWYJvxjyE1_MNk3S7K9VZbyTULpFBt220lVKrUrUGxmEw5K5Jr7YD2xUXBGhE8_W/s400/davidandchiva.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div align="left">Denice and Jessica and Carrie of the <a href="http://www.animalalliancenyc.org/">Mayor's Alliance</a> could not have set it up better. Chiva and I started the Tour de Shelter in lower Manhattan and worked our way north while visiting four animal rescue organizations along the way. The shelters were as diverse as the NYC population, and I have loads of information to share.<br /><br />The first stop was one of the oldest humane organizations in the United States, <a href="http://www.bideawee.org/index.php">Bideawee</a> (which means "stay awhile" in Scottish).<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254364722055931458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUjRPqG35lhmpXu2aXfUOcyeEiTjNwy2XeIiL-5csE-ZzZ2ijo483b9-pv77UWPK4BDgui0yXvEDx1kgwsYPY38VY4NcRkueR3j0leiB_YirRzTHBbkjQ3MTDJsi8-kBdnXg2VDMxJpX7V/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+034.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="left">Bideawee is a a non-profit, re-rescue organization that <a href="http://www.bideawee.org/monthly_second_start_campaign.php">helps give abandoned, neglected, and homeless animals a second start to life</a>. Bideawee's efforts are much deeper than rescue and adoption, however, and include some of the most <a href="http://www.bideawee.org/programs_&_services/learning_centers/overview.php">highly innovative and successful learning programs in the world</a>.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="left">I was in awe when listening to Dr. Brennen explain Bideawee's <a href="http://www.bideawee.org/programs_&_services/learning_centers/reading_to_dogs.php">Children Reading to Dogs Program</a>. The reading to dog program's goal is to 1) strengthen the bond between children and pets and 2) help children improve their reading skills in a comfortable and non-judgemental setting.</div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254367917592012162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEly8xt9EeU_CB0CGcid-ER9scmJ7KsJVfiYbTCPoC_RwVT_4m9vZCxGVeI8F4lq3WjGVQwIh_QZI05PUzwnYfpgp8NUAIj0bIo66amiaPGYuNt1PynvvVWBfbXtlWlse9aU87KawjQqeu/s400/loveofthe+pets.jpg" border="0" /> </p><div align="center">Myself pictured with Dr. Brennen (VP of Program Operations & Chief of Veterinary Services) and Nancy Taylor (President and CEO) at Bideawee. </div><br /><div align="left">Another Bideawee program that highlights improving the human/animal bond is the highly acclaimed Doga, a partner Yoga class for people and their dogs. Once again, the purpose of the program is to strengthen the bond between human and animal. Bideawee staff members understand that if more people are better connected to their pets, the number of animals being neglected or surrendered will be reduced and thus lower the number of euthanasia procedures. I encourage you and your pet to learn more about <a href="http://www.bideawee.org/programs_&_services/learning_centers/overview.php">Bideawee's creative and successful learning programs</a>.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254364549853453458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqf7atotHP2N-bn-gTeRN6fM8FkzIA10Q_9uHjTl-mmvq9i2I-YvSEQb1J8uHRHNwn0xv7KD7nRE5zICIxaN8p-w432cd7ZZAgIbLjKqharlMHoTc2kybWBIanVgitIq9tykIRl-faRect/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+026.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center">A child-made bandana seen at the Bideawee shelter. Rescue organizations across the country are house millions of animals that need good homes. If they do not find homes, they are euthanized.</div><div align="center"><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254364426499224786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEtIeBszrpIeo-O4JI-BTL6SqZqiZckug78PRZBeYy8PaaSpDkm2YG-lwCbbg_E8cVL06a9dCkfZT66NjiD-6igT23nhCk6AUP8z7qRSrCIhiYWe2E0kpHG2o2kMDkROz3gt8wyodfbez7/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+028.jpg" border="0" /></div><p align="center">Shiloh, a gray, loving pup at Bideawee was "love at first site" for Carrie. Dr. Brennen discusses the care and adoption requirements of Shiloh.<br /></p><br />The second stop on the Tour de Shelter was <a href="http://www.humanesocietyny.org/">The Humane Society of New York</a>. Chiva and I were warmly greeted by Co-Executive Director Sandra DeFeo and were given a tour of the shelter.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254364929451072466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0eXjsZ3Ce0m5YTIOshRChak1BOjViXnfnY9082m9t0Hbxe_s9rYTUE89WPRL7Zz0nPHCESM5iOU0GmlhJgFvWvZDAQ4Aa28F6j2C60n3U6V_8gI9ovqOJ_7MqE_jppHU-TlzYhzrKILVu/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+035.jpg" border="0" /><br />The NYHS features <a href="http://www.humanesocietyny.org/adoption.shtml">adoptions</a> but also provides <a href="http://www.humanesocietyny.org/services.shtml">full-service veterinary care</a> to dog and cat owners with limited means. Located on Manhattan Island, working space is quite limited and expensive. To overcome this, NYHS staff have transformed the roof of their building to a play/exercise area for their animals.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254364290545751970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEfXunTFViqo1-n3zFyZFKLB1X8y2DZE3RvjACiydeOsdMI3-LVuFSQUk4wKLLmyO13AZfaeOkjprIv6hrh6vNAxpJLHD8ZAiFdKnfewsry9u2uNb41R0FV4Qd-cr8GS8vVRZxTAP6i5eg/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+037.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"> Chiva and I pictured with NYHS staff members on the roof.<br /><br /></p><p>After the NYHS, Chiva and I made our way to the <a href="http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_nyc">ASPCA</a> (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). The ASPCA was founded in 1866 and is the first humane organization of the Western Hemisphere. Although primarily known as a nation-wide animal welfare advocacy group, the ASPCA does have an excellent adoption shelter in New York City.</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254363047963906786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4Lz5i3nTht492UGWpNdOdaM_CMkd8I1-SF21f0LLCUO81kSCHZ-L4Bo2ojtLLkklKZv8naBiZdP75DvcQil0myMrl-am-jf0JTU-8Btz5rMkrZfBvw2tB1prTyqrv5Vgkr6dS9k3bJmr/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+059.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254384678278185074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXEazbfYGupMYs5UyWWkN76c_aTradk59QYwOJL_RPWzChNxDPt09m0ArdBfneg9cNE-_LxkXLlrVvigLrSzxX1Yl2RvI1S6LJabHaa6nLDJqxmAbEqFX9js1k6wbZTYahz64tk5gElmc/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+049.jpg" border="0" />Amy Geduldig kindly showed me around the facility, and I was very impressed. First of all, the animal living areas are enclosed by glass. The glass not only improves the image of the cages, but it also makes for less noisy and therefore less stressful living. The ASPCA shelter was also the first place I heard classical music being played to relax the animals. I saw many volunteers actively running around the shelter attending to the many homeless animals.<br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254364144312668626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu578j53dtZZ2uZqsusphINcYD4LCSFS1vu_cKULV5CGN69p6ny4ovIooLVuLhYr_-n6ZnLioz553veTPIawjah-6Z9Buw3rmDIcLHN28iJgVXRM1bxvKowrFwH-EHxj61PgBp94oTsSw7/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+046.jpg" border="0" />A cat up for adoption at the ASPCA peers through the glass enclosing in New York City. <br /></div><br /><p align="left">Last but not least was my visit to the largest pet organization in the Northeast, <a href="http://www.nycacc.org/index.htm">Animal Care and Control of New York City</a> (AC&C). The organization rescues over 40,000 animals each year. I spent a couple days with staff members of the AC&C and will write a separate post to highlight my visit.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254391388347757122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UmLhb8hq0uz51xRrA5t-wZbpCKxKdKHPGYqLC5jTpuWwIgQ3Q6O9qDK9AEWQLwENJsyFoCQXi6RG_jCW5VoIbgU329u2rb7CzPmxwhCppDxNoG1aB1Q1he1TOmfVkSOW1UxKRCFtoKHo/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+090.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p>Thank you to everyone who helped make the New York City Tour de Shelters possible. I look forward to staying in touch.</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>David</p>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-31973727518891701322008-10-03T06:51:00.000-07:002008-10-03T07:23:31.792-07:00South 4th Bar and Cafe Fundraiser<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjMnij28GHZJcYZOq2iqplNGLNmPcR4DH5WbpD1jyWDWIb4JKhzE5Lpei6oSq5KRT0WcR-dDV_5-ec30Pq67EwsiE2xjnBYNQfjRRMkX3cBs_-vLYvpL5U3e6kedV1qtjCVdP3ojZM9vW/s1600-h/NewYourTourdeDog+009.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252930696239530338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjMnij28GHZJcYZOq2iqplNGLNmPcR4DH5WbpD1jyWDWIb4JKhzE5Lpei6oSq5KRT0WcR-dDV_5-ec30Pq67EwsiE2xjnBYNQfjRRMkX3cBs_-vLYvpL5U3e6kedV1qtjCVdP3ojZM9vW/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+009.jpg" border="0" /></a> Patrick greeting me at the Tour de Dog fundraiser in Brooklyn, New York</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left"><div>I was very fortunate to meet Matty and Patrick (aka Mattrick) in the middle of Iowa during Ragbrai. It just so happened that the two live in Brooklyn, New York and work at a dog and cyclist friendly bar known as <a href="http://www.south4thbar.com/">South 4th Bar and Cafe</a>. </div><br /><div>Once Mattrick learned of the Tour de Dog, they immediately wanted to get involved and to throw us a fundraiser party. I told them Chiva and I would be honored and that we would see each other soon in New York City.</div><br /><div>The party was a blast, and I was able to sell Tour de Dog shirts and hoodies. In addition, a brewing company named Avery donated a keg and proceeds went to Tour de Dog. Local restaurants also donated food.</div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252926561916902338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWd3r2y-yJChNcqFZAU6MWssyx3JyzhNOsPsF_Mo8eGV2p2ZNAf7pjkBC0GEvPTiTCXBXonSPiUmNfq-6ZRKaNAuZcNkahk3oYXcI86nFH2QGdMNbmXoIJMqfp1flEWGwIeEYLupzrs2gA/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+016.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div>Thank you to all who helped make Tour de Dog's first fundraiser possible and thank you to those who showed up to party. I look forward to returning to Brooklyn soon! If you or your company would like to have a Tour de Dog Fundraiser event, please email Denice at <a href="mailto:denice.kerr@comcast.net">denice.kerr@comcast.net</a>. We need your help to keep going.</div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252927058150174034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLCSozLMkItFVNpKxmBIMm4ghhAfcZ9cxTz4wTEBlltjU0BsV32xfAUb9p-HF0SXyXVNGJYiQSr7zb5sMalztgM_Mx8i7tBcW73YUWCZAZJMi8hrBDd8pFEKntbMS-mO5gXyN1ZrvmVbRc/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+011.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div>Lindsey, Maggie, Mom, and Dad all made the trip to New York City to help with the Tour de Dog fundraiser and to have some fun. Thank you all for coming!</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252926768667147394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsCQ5VCC_dXP3bj8K7a3jyslidBtWTCe3y4jpjLV4ViV1rTzc0DbcXJqB8E0Rdp1-AYiGLuDKtRPbZk9VrbUjUDioWegoiEYCSn-vZs8xD8v2NJ_ynd-e8KxDkZGX6MwxL64D_QtWkYERK/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+013.jpg" border="0" /></div>Elizabeth, <a href="http://irreverentrandom.blogspot.com/">who is also a canine cyclist</a>, was able to make it to the South 4th Bar and Cafe. It was great to finally meet her in person.<br /></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-31742631976995658672008-10-02T05:53:00.001-07:002008-10-02T07:31:33.532-07:00David Sylvester meets David Sylvester<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252539143285412514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cAGTmBSiu3rM_fVJrFDGfy01__nadzC1o84MFG0Aln9V1YdDL0H0qWzpvpUPpwTlFt4fsGuqYzhl145ub4MS3_3RKYHIDvdVHVOk38mElHVRZDwd7FUvxG_JbGLf1-nLASnKBTY6kXs_/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+004.jpg" border="0" /><br />One of the most inspirational and remarkable individuals I have ever met is a man that just happens to have my exact same name, <a href="http://www.contribute2.org/index.html">David Sylvester</a>. I had the privilege of meeting David in-person for the first time on my way to New York City and immensely enjoyed hearing and learning from his experiences not only as a long distance cyclist but more importantly as a man who betters the world.<br /><br />David is straight up a giant and fun loving person that has been through more than almost all of us could ever imagine. His <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blackhistory2008/columns/story?id=3222671">accomplishments are numerous and his stories fascinate beyond belief</a>. Saying David has gone above and beyond with both his cycling and society contribution efforts is a tremendous understatement, and he is far from being done. If I were the author of a dictionary, I would most certainly include a picture of David next to the words "will" and "passion."<br /><br />What impresses me most with the other David Sylvester is his ability to stay determined, focused and true to himself. He realizes that every minute in his life is invaluable, and therefore he does not squander a moment. He has envisioned who he wants to be and not scared to go out of his comfort zone to make it happen. Even without the help of any sponsors and being very close to completely broke, David continues to walk the walk. He is an inspiration that serves as a reminder for me to never give up as I continue with my true passion: Tour de Dog.<br /><br />In closing I tell you this David: I am honored to share your name. Thank you for all that you have done and let's continue to represent for David Sylvester. I look forward to riding with you one day in the near future.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />The Canine David Sylvester<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252539343897495778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTU7-uNypwmEsARiBIofHR9-c2-kyCwryVx8lo3F7bcZGkbsV21rPqS8AMPn0eaQM6RlJjHt0NS6hC0C83Z0uPu8k3NHbwEyqf1IKfMq_xZNnr1xuvyo7CzBYwYASmQEXN2NXfTkLLXDcE/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+006.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">PS: David also loves dogs and enjoyed meeting Chiva</p>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-26254358739824748722008-10-02T05:44:00.001-07:002008-10-02T05:52:30.112-07:00The Big Apple<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2XVAt5LFPsCpbh7jZHZGGTJ9aPwknz4ohKlJ1WS0AAy624iJ3En7kgeYsO27MCqbeoj86FwM_iJoImmIanDzPx8NaFYYG2DaOKyguHvI3kZs8D1XQLnZYkj4CTY6huP5_hqgedjnM3utV/s1600-h/NewYourTourdeDog+129.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252536748764653474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2XVAt5LFPsCpbh7jZHZGGTJ9aPwknz4ohKlJ1WS0AAy624iJ3En7kgeYsO27MCqbeoj86FwM_iJoImmIanDzPx8NaFYYG2DaOKyguHvI3kZs8D1XQLnZYkj4CTY6huP5_hqgedjnM3utV/s400/NewYourTourdeDog+129.jpg" border="0" /></a>Over the past five days Tour de Dog has been extremely busy learning about animal shelters and animal care and control facilities in New York City. Instead of cramming everything into one large blog post, I will break the visit up and release a post each day for the next several days.Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-56287864436284350672008-09-17T06:17:00.000-07:002008-09-17T06:52:05.760-07:00Home with Family and Friends<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246979017296046098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZufkMB5XBnCXEEjHx_lnTMBKtm0Ie701DuKo5bEM_m3fzUYDf5mcuBuX9Y1I7XIOE8B1vNJQD7AFGN-ZYsPmtXrv9WFttZyE-e01YJoasKIn524AKLEwSEQF7sntd5SvX2vLeDG43n0o/s400/homegroup+shot.jpg" border="0" />HOME SWEET HOME! Chiva and I are now safe and sound at my parents' house in Delaware where we both grew up. Over the weekend, we were warmly greeted by cheering friends and family. Thank you to all those who came to the welcome home party!<br /><br />So now what? Its a great question, and one that keeps spinning in my head. First of all, Tour de Dog is heading to New York City for a week to meet with animal rescue organizations. As usual I will be blogging and adding pictures that tell the experience.<br /><br />A reality with the Tour de Dog is that I need funds to cover Chiva and my expenses. Thus I am also looking for jobs so that a Stage 2 is possible. <br /><br />The Tour de Dog has been such a humbling and memorable experience in my life, and it is far from over. Right at this moment Denice and many other people are helping organize future Tour de Dog events. We will keep you up to date! In the meantime, please enjoy a few more pictures:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246980703224588258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBDJX0FV9kNbuDw2TxApkpZvOZ10rJqMA-0Mi03I2fbkre8gLF2LofH0Zppa0rzhPthVAgazyRPYPGF0D1mmYdKFLDZw1Q1tpknu9Y1arYw-kH_epvFpGWAJHwl6FFS2Qeei6etWdKUh4j/s400/bikingjobslane.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">Cruising down the Jobs Lane hill in Newark, Delaware. Ever since I was born I lived on this street. It was amazing and emotional to bike down it with dozens of my closest friends waiting.</div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246979364762688482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy0MyXdDOz83f5zbk7hZNMbt2CVsNR3VznkjId2_LwMsx2Jn29I5nh9USQaqExU-CvfMfcY2o6YIofU9fQtYJz8FdXueOrhOFYRhKKEqbH0kaFx3EfXvItuQslFH8AMENErLSqp77KqbJW/s400/family.jpg" border="0" />A family shot with Dad, Mom, Allen, and Virginia. My Mom greeted me with a stylin' Tour de Dog T-shirt. Its great to have so much encouragement and support!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246979267263122882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ5JzbUCArJ4jzKhyphenhyphen3N8rufMo0HDe6JmEFFhCHyTSwk4QUFNtZI08ZPVxbrr6wK6kIhQO1C1Tv4Cp18IMzkhmgnxz2PY0_exGN0JHVFeLUJP6WFaLpCnn7q-Yn2R03mKuOwQwlzbv4xqBR/s400/usflag.jpg" border="0" />Rob and Brandon waiting for the Tour de Dog with an American flag.<br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246979121861601634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCe0S1WTGOhBtDKzqWyLNH2LsL3YVyY8fI6dwCw3oPqGwVMeKDh9gV1AorDVphzzl-Ch-RWkiOV-JkWpNn1g6RveLOMdJEFqXw7ukK0Ib7UZUoI2aJuTDAUPmgbubsDhNdvHhvuJkQSH91/s400/ladylove.jpg" border="0" />Chiva and I receiving some love and affection from Tour de Dog fans, Courtney and Amanda.</div><br /></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-33204061565961775172008-09-12T07:56:00.000-07:002008-09-12T09:03:14.221-07:00My Thoughts on Breed Specific Legislation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4x9vrkmgXczFaL2TyUOYo8WcrmckGHNmj8UEakkDX16r6jfeRSWCavBAq3Dhr3jkMkYImZFZvWIVEOV84RxUMsn38RCFmqNbigdbs6Bb-RCTU6CoOoPcvVhic8eaHhJdL_tEyPpGvyLg/s1600-h/pit"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245157501116188130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4x9vrkmgXczFaL2TyUOYo8WcrmckGHNmj8UEakkDX16r6jfeRSWCavBAq3Dhr3jkMkYImZFZvWIVEOV84RxUMsn38RCFmqNbigdbs6Bb-RCTU6CoOoPcvVhic8eaHhJdL_tEyPpGvyLg/s400/pit" border="0" /></a><br />With the right care and attention, I believe ALL puppies can make wonderful and loving pets. With the wrong care and attention, puppies and dogs can be dangerous animals that can fatally wound people.<br /><br />In one of the latest stops of the Tour de Dog, Ontario, Canada, a breed specific law has passed that aims to eliminate "pit bull type" dogs. This type of legislation is highly flawed and has no statistical data to back it. Thousands of dogs are being unfairly and tragically confiscated and destroyed. When dogs fatally attack people, I continue to hear from experts that it is because the dog is a VICTIM of an irresponsible, neglectful, and/or abusive owner that has trained the dog to behave this way. More emphasis should be on punishing the owners and not the dogs.<br /><br />Here are a few points you should know about Breed Specific Legislation (BSL):<br /><br />1) BSL is a highly flawed, shotgun approach that is unjust to many innocent dogs.<br /><br />2) Currently there is no database that statistically reports the number of dog bites and fatal dog attacks based upon a certain breed and its population numbers. Thus more research is essential before enacting legislative action.<br /><br />3) Studies estimate that there are over 4.5 million dog bites each year in the United States. Of these millions of bites, only 10-20 will be fatal. Although extremely tragic, this small overall number does not warrant exterminating an entire breed.<br /><br />4) Well-enforced laws that punish owners of dogs rather than directly punishing the involved and uninvolved dogs is more justified, ethically sound, and overall effective in preventing attacks.<br /><br />5) Determining the make-up of a dog can be extremely challenging. For example, I do not know what Chiva has in her. My guess is boxer, shepherd, husky, and chow. Enforcement and litigation fees are tremendous and nightmarish.<br /><br />6) If you ban a pit bull, why won't people looking for an aggressive dog abuse another large breed (Rottweiler, St. Bernard, Doberman, Golden Retriever, etc.). Where will the BSL stop? Will BSL ban 25 breeds that have been involved with fatallly attacking people?<br /><br />7) Many other factors other than breed type influence why a dog attacked a person. For example, has the dog been abused? Has the dog been poorly socialized? Has been left on a chain for most its life? <br /><br />8) <a href="http://avmajournals.avma.org/doi/abs/10.2460/javma.2000.217.836">A 2000 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association</a> states that between 1979 through 1998, 25 different breeds or crossbreeds of dogs were involved in fatal human attacks (not just pit bull types).<br /><br />9) The law may actually attract people to want the banned breed. If that is the most dangerous and aggressive breed, people who want dogs for the wrong reason will be attached to them.<br /><br />10) First we should try implementing restrictions on breeds. For example, a course and training that covers responsible pit bull ownership should be mandatory for owners. A special license must be obtained to own a pit bull or other breeds. Banning an entire breed is nothing more than an extreme measure that is unfair to the tens of thousands of dogs of that breed that are not dangerous. The key is keeping the dogs away from irresponsible and abusive owners.<br /><br />11) Pit bulls and pit bull type dogs make wonderful pets. I know many people who own pits, and they are as loving as can be.<br /><br />My message to those concerned about BSL is the following:<br /><br />We must continue to educate the public and to press politicians so that more people are aware that BSL is an unfair and ineffective form of animal control. Moreover, we must educate the public on how to responsible own a dog as well as to prevent dog attacks and bites in the first place. Get informed and get involved. Voice your opinion and have the statistics and facts to back it. For more information and sources, please take a look at the links below:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.hsus.org/pets/issues_affecting_our_pets/dangerous_dogs.html">HSUS Statement on Breed Specific Legislation</a><br /><a href="http://www.avma.org/public_health/dogbite/dogbite.pdf">Community Guide to Dog Bite Prevention</a><br /><a href="http://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/about/pubs/dola-pubsfty/dola-pubsfty.asp#TOC_01">Information on Ontario's Dog Owner's Liability Act</a><br /><br />Thank you to those who continue to comment about BSL. My goal is to have this website where people can voice their opinion regarding issues pertaining to animal rescue and control. Please continue to share links and to voice your thoughts.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />DavidChiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-13007009475649450382008-09-11T04:57:00.000-07:002008-09-25T09:13:40.808-07:00Tour de Dog Photos from Niagara Falls and More<div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244731921548195826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh_kQYG4bo1rXEq2ycUZXCKcgd2aR1d5JM9XgPNTbCa72kTaD___YhM7j-GD5Ej-jIUkcnvh_epYgNZz0UqasWdjBVrjKVnJG-3zON5sO1Kpxk7dhn8KOhmnQHpXDdjfpMgtZSvCpJMQn8/s400/Niagara.jpg" border="0" /> <div align="center">David and Chiva at Niagara Falls-the most powerful waterfalls in North America (Courtesy Niagara Gazette). Click here to view <a href="http://www.niagara-gazette.com/local/local_story_253194917.html">David and Chiva in the Niagara Gazette</a>.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244734969387747090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw5PmTE6WtBocgHEgd2WtHctBoZlarl8OFtWiVklrlxIgk6-jGeg9hABQFX3D82oriSB6UdfnrHXe7N5ie_JGBYCghS0xcnhVTACs_gm168CrJV07tu8mYLoq55NmFjp7PHMJTwEINS7BQ/s400/DSC02369.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="center">View of the falls from the Canadian side.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244737469861944482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge9t9Rnj8PmGnYYgsPDyzzxT8mBkMrAKoIer5VGJA_sMzmDZiHpzx43cW6HpojhY6PHCKVmL3V9PgCA1a_Lt4GoPycnyOp_U68QoIZdLACUwnYsC-cL6usJhEYmj53B9Tg3cLjvuLbvFnr/s400/DSC02413.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="center">To improve its public image, the <a href="http://www.niagaraspca.org/">Niagara County SPCA</a> changed its name to the Rainbow Animal Shelter. It has since retured to its original name.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244733372250037986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ly0RRn-9-YihFQlmZrFFr5O4p04HAiTqXCFAMVcpwgycoHZDtfFGLpHvaR861WZM0CX4fY6l-M71x33vVmAqFEodi0TnQbYRLf6TW4g6w8AWvFwGaSX-lwG0eFydQCjg3Ug2wQMejD5C/s400/DSC02394.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="center">Albert Chille, Executive Director of the Niagara County SPCA, puts a lot of emphasis on marketing to share the shelter's role with the community. Albert warmly welcomed the Tour de Dog and talked with me for an entire day. He has spent nearly 30 years as the director of the shelter.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244733704892338530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCtMA66IJqdPY0wJsuiVA1q7ejseqDyeRU1g25FGigtnuGw79EIzmQxEW0xBeCWf8-OPuvZSgLgB5F0qWyaVeUhb0g3xWJX3VhSEaJxJmeI3C_OOvzHKGsSEWL7SEM9R_2O3IjRoMWE7_/s400/DSC02388.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="center">A pit bull that is in need of a good home at the Niagara County SPCA.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244738525580576882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjityqe12y_OoF1k_bYidXWfQ5BItPlFmFF4cAHmXE0IHSfyvtwXK6SO8pE5eJ7hnJe8R5QgdT9YiJFG4SBAoUMsL5zHWbtK2bltr0JLr_pgGXc8CvAQFlYwI6qlo1hOZ1RnWHRDIVp01ZI/s400/DSC02368.JPG" border="0" /> Marissa, a resident of Oakville, Ontario, kindly opened her home to Chiva and me. Above she is seen with her beloved rescue dogs, Roxy and Bali.<br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244736604797855522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWc_O-UY5zVUnnXOJ7Yic-UeTjix9GOUZkbETQS7GcObD6xgz7-ymU5_km9l5nDW8268x5UUCyg9v89sXM6d3EEE5xsiC3e8jSqzvTVaY8KcpiHgvN9ZF6ItWfmT16fxeK37K9UZwWyWC/s400/DSC02364.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244735988520420178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz-DxWs-fsHEDpyIzILddclmSxkUqh8PCER8WQA-13IXhigAb9h4ESxv_rcpbqwOUmT7YX7bCJvI8CCWjNt9LwdI7u0hQohlJB19MyWvD0pe7UfBatcnolOCw0B_m4NolRvJG_G3Q52YC/s400/DSC02346.JPG" border="0" />Wiggle Waggle Walkathoners braved the cold rain in order to help the <a href="http://www.hamiltonspca.com/">Hamilton/Burlington SPCA</a> and raised over $100,000 for the care of neglected, injured, and orphaned animals. Chiva and I were thrilled when we were invited to lead the Wiggle Waggle Walkathon.<br /></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244735814045772770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhNQvWASa6kNQGXMkWjYS2yAvolilSkS48OqHfluxodRE_UKdGDJi4bTh-3vultJuspOJySMtlp5_fLlny9FWEBc3Xd3OWWaltM11vYmsqGUF5Qg8yGrFrbObxm4YzYnlGVQQ8TDADY6qJ/s400/DSC02355.JPG" border="0" />Over 2,000 animal lovers along with their parrots, pigs, miniature horses, and dogs participated in Hamilton's annual "Walk for the Animals."</p></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-66997682511370231502008-09-06T08:10:00.001-07:002008-09-06T11:18:32.973-07:00A Cat's Meow<div align="left"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242928681096037058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZKWBoIMFrS9E8cJUv6150BTktfhDJsPhI-Lxuu3klC8Vz9z009b88zWCQH-gTRrr8Mj1t2I9O8ynO8SbhiDfvLO-b_-62mcON8IxXljPr2R5aQrgVGjTomA7hIfKsgE3Hrx_OStg4vAPy/s400/DSC02338.JPG" border="0" />The latest stop on the Tour de Dog was the <a href="http://www.oakvillehumane.ca/home.html">Oakville and District Humane Society</a>. Just recently, employees of the <a href="http://www.oakvilletoday.ca/news/article/202379">Humane Society rescued 52 Bengal cats from horrendous conditions</a>. The plan is to socialize these shy, frightened, and beautiful animals and then hopefully find them good homes. Please <a href="http://www.oakvillehumane.ca/contactus.html">get in touch with the Humane Society</a> if you are interested in helping or adopting.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242927754159196514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCRAzQ3ygj2gSeGa6BeFIBFP6_LiTwJAX3pElHrGBCgKWMPgBybC1g7X8p4Q9qM08j0mzaU9sE1Pkg6LZ8SHH2bIWoYUOwFRdK_CiK4j_MnpNCPJ6PL4c6OcHGG46e_HdIF5QLQwpvsI/s400/DSC02297.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">The shelter facility was built in the early 1950's and has not been able to keep pace with the growing number of animals that enter. In fact, employees say they can comfortably house up to 160 cats but currently have nearly 400. Offices, hallways, and any other open spaces are packed and stacked with cats, guinea pigs, and rabbits.</div><div align="center"><br /></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242942159204969666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zBSaTbp-XHODVDT0l8dZQajWdISXXtaEpBP7Zy5GVnMJtxznyLArpSGAXv1cMHmeV10hEOBqyJxYNGQmKkXZOgygASsDP5s44BvPtBUvVYwJ3r9rmfP7-4l5A9YYrlmY8e-OAC_BLa8u/s400/DSC02324.JPG" border="0" /><br />I asked the shelter Executive Director, Johanne Golder, why she thought the cat numbers were so high, and she told me cats are way to often left unattended outside to produce litter after litter. If your cat is going to be an outside roamer, it should be imperative to have he/she neutered or spayed.<br /><br />Although she will always do her best to take care of every animal that enters the shelter, Johanne would like to dedicate more energy into educating the public so less pets have to enter the shelter in the first place. Employees are challenged and overwhelmed with caring for so many animals in an outdated facility and thus unable to provide the education programs needed.<br /><br />The good news is the shelters I visit seem to be full of the most amazing, dedicated and compassionate people. Employees and volunteers do not do these jobs for the money or for the glamor but simply for improving the lives of animals.<br /><br />One observation is each shelter has its own way of managing. Difficult decisions are inevitable and must be made. If we work hard together to educate anyone and everyone, we can indeed make a difference and decrease the number of tragic decisions that are made.<br /><br />Thank you to Johanne and the Oakville Humane Society for welcoming the Tour de Dog. Please stay in touch!</p><p>Here are a few additional pictures from yesterday's tour: </p><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242928403013791890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPnWMZkeqy_JlvFKYP71FyzjkD7mZxgmNq9NFvPC-PUawgymHoJqTBAmRfvE5z1Ob7IaAmN8X7Q7n0Qj7g-nUZln060XrvWlS4oFUi6ao7SNN0x9ReOoJQSfuqfv9_TpurK7AbOwzsUL3/s400/DSC02310.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center">Johanne's dream is to convert this room into a public classroom. The space is currently used for storage and even houses animals due to such limited space. </p><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242929627962277010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsnhI56l6CiQnXlHMMMSM_vK3udO7XoNx5xrJtN1z1IQsXwZC5d8PSEzZYgLW6xrfXFKGYjsTgfWYHoMCFIC_rFnjngFWS4KVH8r-J0OUAVtt7S8L0xTMB5ZJkhvbhQcUJ7D_mzJfKxeCT/s400/DSC02334.JPG" border="0" /> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Executive Director Johanne Golder uses her office space to house animals.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242928091149971330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7MP8p8w4zg9ygLaq4qABDfnHmo0v_kStsfuC9EFi1J9c-dzqaxU0CwZTe8oRM9zDPl_VhyphenhyphenEDTRsB93FN_4gklPTdo2-sMqxFco_ITWMxui2iHgHF7N_ev2cRKo59PHFc8yDWkSO9sRA/s400/DSC02308.JPG" border="0" />Many dogs also need to find homes at the Oakville Humane Society shelter.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242941635361522770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitP-AeeRXTYbkhFd3xIO5UVJrT3LWiPNpqqPFSVAjibt6_40Lv3yoElyIsQ4xUE32NWgk4PErMR7hr5kkm7Y7itGdFGd_yuSmN2BZJwSAB1wWR4jZHK32emoB4T9QcTwQeGMqYyfvB_qZl/s400/DSC02319.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242941889669665202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqDu02TA9uCE2I4dFi_n5bAhRoXgFVgxMj9uUhRZ2QdtLPv1GErlppS_zQvFhJEjeDKi5Vv8gW7d7DhboPeR7R4DmjR8dF3lm7kSmpCQM2z1OC5l1dCZ1jbyV38_hEnQ3xrB4edcp3AJcZ/s400/DSC02326.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242942892891579938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjCuF8cWj2cJ5IxX2BEIRRrmUQUoRvuwa3Cl7PRV-Yhdz1rd3r_8YJnIaUyi0UYzSSTiw8_qfS12QrZTOBcIm-29CmvdhzKAiQZtTyhAGMjFD1QghUrV92oh_sNHaGWSmwM88vnJkm89BB/s400/DSC02339.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242929285292524594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw5vPHK9RuLwEbO8tXTO1JjnMz28VTRXuXbyiG1eymLldt72_sAKScU5NNskk3erHvJGsEzsWiFk5DH-wle990CHxiUQSo7LbOg88KSMRYPQuOhSpTJeVCfxmxLShtqToGldiURorH67bg/s400/DSC02341.JPG" border="0" />The pet cemetery outside started in the 1950s and has reached capacity. </div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-11861349576375904052008-09-04T09:36:00.000-07:002008-09-04T13:47:07.261-07:00The Toronto Humane Society<div align="left"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242206472510536658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguv20prexdWjqkxg2J-Ew_b11BOjmIhbZGqkzanV8qaUIvoWpYHwWviMcXJke5DXhZMODUFN85NkRvpEiTxNhZIKTO1xeHGz540PnIAEVCIcyx9jD83NRcLBVzwea-kuHkdjpYp1kvuZo/s400/DSC02241.JPG" border="0" /><br />Yesterday, Chiva and I made our way over to the <a href="http://www.torontohumanesociety.com/">Toronto Humane Society</a>. Just like many of the other shelters we have visited during the Tour de Dog, this one was filled with beautiful animals that need good homes.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br />On average the Toronto Humane Society receives 8,500 animals per year. Currently the facility is at capacity with 500 cats, 85 dogs, and dozens of rabbits. A <a href="http://www.torontohumanesociety.com/programs/wildliferehab.asp">wildlife rehabilation room</a> is also filled with raccoons, squirrels, pigeons, and even an iguana.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242207343005195602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkzfM9iL1rb9bL75nBcKXuXhGnI1wTCbcw0zV-BdVHhA9LapVeBt19zZzPkolk_ww2N2r2lBf8zEHUxrwMTcnDOlf11XOLgYP-3t8_fApy_ao_EEeWgDKfOFMmqEPtvp99ppkfoqbEv8/s400/DSC02259.JPG" border="0" /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242207821714515890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFmd9ieDdSV9z20GXUmdQ59iHXMlkfZIK3c_o4Nrc5ILIGcWTVRGTV6JbEVPpAR1WF_OsHP0XUtpHa043ONidi0xV7VQRxHtB6cFQbotM3MTCWkXev7jf5peBCk3P3o5J2ui1ocYd5Lo/s400/DSC02281.JPG" border="0" /><br /></div><div align="left">Although every animal shelter visit is different from the next, the needs and challenges are very much the same. Here are a few points I would like to make:<br /><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">1) There is a pet overpopulation crisis. In the United States alone, 3 to 4 million cats and dogs are euthanized every year in order to control their numbers. Although I do not have a statistic for Canada, euthanizing animals as a form of population control is also quite common. I view this as inhumane and avoidable if we want it to be.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br />2) The shelters run off of donations and need motivated employees and volunteers. Although some control facilities are on city or county budgets, the shelters are usually such a low priority that the funds are not nearly sufficient. It really shows when the community is not actively helping its shelter and the animals suffer in return.<br /><br /></div><div align="left"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242217319187394946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtWTRzxt2uJTWID91HBSb80RR2WLLRQHJF6o34uMEi4fl0NBea3BRP7c3ABny064ccFBQIePhvK5zR9YWSY8LbMUuwYdHlwHvcqbnsleWa4Y6XxAd-ibD4puOxmY0sgmMo_0Wl6BMxEE/s400/DSC02289.JPG" border="0" /><br />3) Never buy your pet from a store or breeder. The shelters are overfilled with wonderful animals that will be put down if they do not find good homes. Go to a shelter first; buying from pet stores or breeders will only encourage them to continue breeding and selling animals. When you buy a dog or cat, a shelter dog or cat that needed a home will be put down. It is not fair when there are already so many that need homes. Give them a chance until we fix the overpopulation crisis.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242206606889150226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7wR4VNHcFC5iDY3BdVQUbCeJPXcoeQqtM1tmka7e8jVZqQVMoirYOCa4QchgASOsngxTAKuGCbbGMM_FeFtRhq8knai_nEDyE4JN8qaDfmtSAPq-v0ih2_lhSnI4dZWNA5Vyuj3TLvY/s400/DSC02239.JPG" border="0" /><br />4) Spay or neuter your pet to prevent adding to the overpopulation numbers. I have seen time after time now where someone has had a cat or dog that was not spayed or neutered and thus had offspring. Owners often think they will be able to sell the litter but eventually have to surrender the pups or kittens to shelters because they never sell. In fact, this is Chiva's story---she was a surrendered puppy that a family could not afford. She was dropped off and luckily found a home. Many other dogs just like Chiva are not as fortunate and are euthanized.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242208287178208642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYKTj_G4Ajo_g6Yev7HMmYlUHLTipWAXWK2F793WUySqza74V4SFXFnvejQ3GhIqZGir9tnn2b3aaZE9fQBg7z_sQHUPjcnlEvMJ9GWa6iWC_atqepEqGyBhtDMqFYbru_skGob3Uyk4/s400/DSC02254.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center">One of many new puppies (with similar markings to Chiva) at the Toronto Humane Society</p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242207161472537570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSQGaRHipSGLsjFsoM19GT0Q8W5AGcGKHPpcc-txoQSKWdk-J8Glq8adyKnwfxp37-3JD-mn0LFqUSr6v5btG8RHVuoUKaQwM247ebob7SAnp2ra8nlx6WkDI_95IoPT2xmZB1MI9nSkw/s400/DSC02258.JPG" border="0" />More pups that are ready to love and to play</p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242208492083203730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMjQc9RgEIeDGs7HaBIeT1spoh6Q4L4yxc8LWBq8BcgNdhYuZQT4SaSZr7apGQ3dtyvos30OHkbJgkbzup9D0fcKFmJ61D6TD5kYj590Nruf3dc_fBQ1EYjY7aVLypi4bftfUoYlXqkU/s400/DSC02244.JPG" border="0" /></p><div align="center">Thank you to those who donate. With your donations, Chiva and I are able to present a check at each and every shelter we visit. You are making the Tour de Dog worthwhile. Thank you!</div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQj1nZ_wKJSah7_BDKBlzXhZklHbrHfmBJu_MzjD-cmVlWmnXuYfd5t1-qoYnT8k45POnamfMVPS2w59zop3CIDpnuN2vTCFs2l0RyTuak0SNoJqphXf-slFymlF4Pz2edayVqSGI-Lz0/s1600-h/DSC02272.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242207652813927426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQj1nZ_wKJSah7_BDKBlzXhZklHbrHfmBJu_MzjD-cmVlWmnXuYfd5t1-qoYnT8k45POnamfMVPS2w59zop3CIDpnuN2vTCFs2l0RyTuak0SNoJqphXf-slFymlF4Pz2edayVqSGI-Lz0/s400/DSC02272.JPG" border="0" /></a> A dog that may not find a home. Shelters workers say that older, black dogs are the most difficult to adopt. Please always consider black dogs when adopting at shelters.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8zvU9LsShB3W_6Lems3v-Zgy5tGn4-5VI4mvzkXeAUdGcPLLMyGIyCgAotyKxjjmsl5CEzyWOk_kSUYoeRWkJjFyDRRZLYozTerDfS2JcHIVk6mBP3uwWdb5MTN6zWRRixjSLMAAqiM/s1600-h/DSC02269.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242207486106791522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8zvU9LsShB3W_6Lems3v-Zgy5tGn4-5VI4mvzkXeAUdGcPLLMyGIyCgAotyKxjjmsl5CEzyWOk_kSUYoeRWkJjFyDRRZLYozTerDfS2JcHIVk6mBP3uwWdb5MTN6zWRRixjSLMAAqiM/s400/DSC02269.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242206895555825666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWd2qN8VMNEtz1HEg6aFh9bD8DFsAUUGxkmJSfblE5NCwNMEeTpI8lscxMYL3oi3SrBZKn5Qb_61ubqo-srvirGcMkORnaxU6efDcqL86nC3_UKYMcdNJvql1Apxh0s0g5sCeOEscLOlE/s400/DSC02246.JPG" border="0" />With the help of Denice and the employees of animal shelters, Chiva and I are starting to get more and more media attention and can spread our message.<br /><br /><div align="left">Special thanks to Ian McConachie of the Toronto Humane Society for welcoming Chiva and me and for showing us around.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br />Sincerely,</div><div align="left">David and Chiva</div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-16361991729425138802008-09-03T05:05:00.000-07:002008-09-03T05:26:26.918-07:00Lights, Camera, Chiva!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5241765862633416210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_hnBBK2ui3-doq3OxdVRTYUBRlks1EmxGiM52XBVXatZyVrMbKqV96lb98TCjANHU-ffvf3jTMsZB8J1hficlh-_TNxS8-KcnYPnyTLG9fb6otnnxdhS0AZTBB6At1wbUkpWYLItISk/s400/DSC02233.JPG" border="0" /><br />Yesterday Chiva and I had the wonderful opportunity to discuss the Tour de Dog with Ann Rohmer on the live television show, <a href="http://www.cp24.com/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20080722/animal_housecalls/20080801/?hub=CP24Home">CP 24's Animal House Calls</a>. Chiva behaved well, and we had a grand time. Thank you to Ian and Denice for making this happen!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uxHta7GdZT4bRkRcsDBUeKz8ziii5g8fwWTGCaGy8nx28Nz9FaA8tmE6JMuOvnBmwhr67zfrhTJJFMNtwk3LfOqmRwvIDUVlt7exaTAs0eCB2voct1r6_19_O87i5aRGw1K4nXpEvJM/s1600-h/DSC02119.JPG"></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5241766147234030114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wi4DdOGssKlX4HEXQDQ1KhqHWHUej9P92RuJ870fSIpnG0GexQ5EcqZ_vZNmVyXBZ59ohcH9Ru6_Dwb0gODBCuwuOJ-eIyn9x4KwpPZWDouPvnrPTdlhEdDXVzYoYJNZmNZ6pgmDJYs/s400/DSC02223.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>Also on the show was Corrie Yeoman who has started a Westie Rescue of Canada. Please say hello and <a href="http://www.westierescuecanada.com/">check out her website</a>.</div><div> </div><div><br />Today marks Chiva's 3rd birthday! After visiting the <a href="http://www.torontohumanesociety.com/">Toronto Humane Society</a> in the morning, we will be walking, running, jumping, playing and exploring all over the city. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the one and only CHIVA!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5241766509769023202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQOWzuXB0RYOW9OGv6sh1yV7dAWI4hG1-IUlCtjd1g4XwMUPJ_G2BMHtNxzzpCN5Zex-lhWxlsJTpGoKZy7CWFSzN049VP11i30Lg1m7exbgeb9rl55dMUQ-846J8U4tMpRq1mcjqK2U/s400/DSC02219.JPG" border="0" /></div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-11720863969593054512008-08-31T07:58:00.001-07:002008-08-31T08:27:00.973-07:00A Ripple Effect<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVL4UHIrv87vw-bzf9Kvk8UfDHVPzRU2gUXIn6CGnV6e4h5cxzm3qL_6owQwnitqSc2qjqDqeocWqexxZBB2JYWlzstdq9980Rx0Z3910gN1PN-iHWBjLFvliReyDJ8Wu0mwQD6VFWtso/s1600-h/jeanstump.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240696471865837298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVL4UHIrv87vw-bzf9Kvk8UfDHVPzRU2gUXIn6CGnV6e4h5cxzm3qL_6owQwnitqSc2qjqDqeocWqexxZBB2JYWlzstdq9980Rx0Z3910gN1PN-iHWBjLFvliReyDJ8Wu0mwQD6VFWtso/s400/jeanstump.jpg" border="0" /></a> Do you remember Great Grandma Stump from Gold Beach, Oregon? Great Grandma Stump has been a tremendous supporter of the Tour de Dog and often checks in with Chiva and me.<br /><br />Just recently, Grandma Stump informed me that she had donated money to her local <a href="http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/OR36.html">Curry County Animal Shelter</a> in honor of the Tour de Dog. She wants her donation to go towards spaying or neutering feral cats to decrease the number that have to be euthanized.<br /><br />Please remember that because of pet overpopulation, it is estimated that <a href="http://www.hsus.org/pets/issues_affecting_our_pets/pet_overpopulation_and_ownership_statistics/hsus_pet_overpopulation_estimates.html">3 to 4 million cats and dogs are euthanized</a> by shelters each year in the United States. My goal is to eliminate this tragic statistic. It does not have to be this way, and we as humans are responsible to change it.Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-26364433244907381852008-08-29T06:24:00.001-07:002008-08-29T06:56:47.020-07:00Canada, Eh?<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239931094910557842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXcFMKyPP1U4sooZq1y9v5Gd2Fbg4C7un2C86yoTLO6kmpsfrXsMtJy8waYKSA_hNKLvBhwlCI_vLkKgWWXi_cYDAJzPSFugaNQcPPOtFFuEY8O8-bs5oE73303I6UzdJ6LAJbBtUJk8Q/s400/DSC_1449.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div align="center">Singing "Oh Canada"<br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div>Chiva and I have taken to Ontario to learn about animal shelters and animal control in Canada. After taking the Trans-Canada Highway for a couple days, we are heading south to Toronto, where we will be spending a few days. Everything is going well, and we continue to maximize the Tour de Dog with the incredible help of Denice.</div><div><br />I have been very fortunate to have had <a href="http://www.jasonhouge.com/">Jason Houge</a> accompany the Tour de Dog for nearly two weeks. His determination to photograph each and every moment has produced many outstanding pictures. Besides his excellent pictures, Jason has given me many ideas and is now a great friend. Thank you Jason for taking the time to photograph the Tour de Dog!</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239937385032206658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyNRCo-Wh9RVQ6s0-2g8TFLh-Zo_NbyiP-fidOLv6XjRhQMDinfaaAsS16MuHNPogG8B_aZS-BaxB4HO0Jw30lfXStIfP2s51Yk4G4mXLbsb6G3gkRzEbVI_9PeNHNvaI-IgtTnj8B-o/s400/DSC02177.JPG" border="0" /><br />Here are the latest photos:<br /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239931276815289506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfo1-dp0l9AjPyaIVcodYEmRzuZ8iXumr7V9oijI0fDi_j3dXDilgfSrwHNfSxSWVSISmpLcxHy9aKoazsP7Iep9iRtrc1q7Aef5aYS8ggYxO2Hl-Y0Pj-IFIp6kM9cz2fUalGPgQpTnM/s400/DSC_1459bw.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239931627978411954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmtX-4xUROTtx2ToQSosZQxcUnPqKyiQr1r2AWOH7VvDwgPaFI0F7wR_u29jr6nxHSNo7zPTQ-T_rHafIjFJVRH1vZh0ObscJ0vtimUah4xabcgfQKm1WDTL-ZYIGTGShh9MI37shUN6c/s400/DSC_1481.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239931498901334914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XVS0Daa2-NzElo1hshTxseB7e_BRKpw7TA17tCAGEMZNbEEdf0GSSeYtmfTLHN0duVfUJPHvbuX9DhOlUERKd3la7O-OAJY1BJ20o5naPtBPBseXKEOGjAmsejxhdjmsQHWPhHen6Sg/s400/DSC_1478crop.jpg" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239934072771553730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIk88jmKZoj7rW3OjhrSeHk6TR4TwVkzFJWSAXgNg9fpSwnNNRvPVsJvsSQ5g5NVTxIqeCh547r5eNEOu-o0CLs6cFtL6Z3GKR4vWrhjTy-W_clplx0y7f95NFHHHs_uP4S-rmlOj8ixo/s400/DSC02184.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239933770298502882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQeQfNiyoUfPqa1JZ_cBySXmc1GXZK2teT-jyXIFkMRhkzuy_5KStFiaq6ho-pG0UUjB3ha_w1uZ95aMjNgtbMWEpw_0_OcQP4S9qyVYW66vgxc0BXpt_O03mVvh7EvOp_0JnsP0OgBy0/s400/DSC02197.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239932822975924194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2A8pkX-hSa3hZcdX4J5sz38fMHb3auoBHfffIi0yqkV6B8uF7w1cH1KxRt_Bkno3v-DlQkUchPeUUhMTTJT9MhW3Z5IfPs_15-lQFvpBGbNiTQaJ6_YY17Ba4AE8ulLjTEgetpkzz-zs/s400/DSC02201.JPG" border="0" /></div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-17675865738448980162008-08-26T06:53:00.000-07:002008-08-26T07:14:37.711-07:00Tour de Dog Photos of the Day, Sault St. Marie<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238824788743917282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecav4hzBehrTZxuhiQNTfJ9Z7OsOfjEYG4LK5-5uhTywL_zEv1EMMJ_L3da6DTybSHKPfITjOWZTFxPPXvDU6mrIxa6S_aHfQvxbRgQH36Fu2fCoWlgOgV7MbPpZZuX1zZA3-xItNibc/s400/DSC_1249.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238825421295906050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OWAOX9lwAi80rLumBUgAMEM77iRzj1Ff7uMIsjbsdsk0dfNUKEpcFsS_wtLQJKcefn8IHGhjRnyPZNl-usyHciPPW9ot0GMbUrEjzbepfkrwRxP-kF_SS99UuEJD6g8EjnDCXLcKh0E/s400/DSC_1298.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238825742589716322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJn4j7ROEmtLBpt567Y5ZwLjA3GMkMg4jqfJuqgdPREt4nfb51GYUh_vuBVE5dwoQ6O0DB8P4pR6lCaRaP0JvI5ofLW1MB6QbTl-bR0FB4jkYWJqQ-zH8PezxMPqVS2M_EMAVPFJVXwlE/s400/DSC_1289.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238826023554408546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71wUXYfRhGcccN3U7XspyXf58aRKM5L1uqM9RJNYK9pM4Dq9RLRDCgAcfX4lGVHWyoHC9VHAxOTmIw7P9VBtJsMWBcwtr-yaD09lMz3yzDOBXqGton8agpjoYRIlCTPpMMJJlAYpFxho/s400/DSC_1311.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238826671006381458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSGb6rlKbBAl-N-PmUJJuC5-TUrhz3-EX4S7Z24-EZybgarlN7dQs-wgoD8_W3oay6qO8dIROC4nCeZ4J7CwPwI3rXgr_b8BNdeHorkYMGYmuoe_8-12Y8vuPyIri0nzJ8tfjjodpOz0c/s400/DSC_1366.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238827722801414178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYbdNOOHGS2bBlGo8Bq2YuEszZBuvHONypjYayAkpcK_eeKz7g2H16XBAs1NIecWNdsTuIkMfp-88397Ofe9JwpWkcASdmInz5Hz55fts-7fYlbhFsCZDvCEHogrQzJG-clgao8suJJcU/s400/DSC_1369.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238827419747785586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDpmfI5qz0rAM_maMilVgrnCCOrUAOIcRKGq5VQNOQklRQ-repzAkvIu5E4b7t-bCJkrB7Z3nv3rl66pqvabU-zynONgxPD53GxPSa8JtkKVBVK_1UsRyXa7cXMqr7usFV1rg8DWq8zk/s400/DSC_1389.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238829352716406770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7I0KPv_3uQ5lfVTwDDxSUXjuP9hUWBCALHLob7QHjgLF7MIVIWxeOxI5fpChncMYeD8zwoxXy6lb7gSvwkaeRThy5vIR1JRsQgizZZtpay05x5honupfD60nNtp77spvhmvJ-aCYi2ZA/s400/DSC02173.JPG" border="0" />Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-84249859110053011892008-08-24T21:37:00.000-07:002008-08-24T21:52:04.228-07:00Tour de Dog Photos of the Day, Sault Ste. Marie<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238310967319633106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj75Nj7yJa9aqZVuhAYQi662vHNl2x-bivlClfItHyAkxN0fqWd53XSxydJ-BWE9R01qYWup88nsgaSoE_rP76887DQiOiaTdmi-jfc1_OnABaOOaiJ1htUpHFuls8qxs9sPAKmKOexGew/s400/DSC_1085.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238310259981936498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXNiSv1PJlj3ond59_5ymIznODpIVy2hoP03hPzd-e50PLTGrsTMFINGMMjxyxOKaiO_ESoMEtCmroxtbG0RLnGMdVJbrZzBRqrUwOW3EeIpaRsg2zGEc-7cxYxYxyjlK2v6oqIg-wqk/s400/DSC_1160.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238311442878337090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVZ52h8NmqL0jrUDv1UwhvndbOnR0kuPT-E0igxz1ktTmu2tl0vFQcFn2dI6V6C06kpfL1GPSS8ifNqzYPeAEQXcxa_R3UlTc4ITuzacuU9jJ4bP5Gi13Pk75nLZEX9PNKaT6CxzHRoQ/s400/DSC_1131.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238312642417329938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lt4YZ4Vbu3xUEPoIBjhBMwgiGoB_-GPquODSxm0lbWFFGt5iYmnTuZxQXbwJIgPkWe70872S_ciRnDgmNCW9Jdvk_O290JjGdmKkgjOv4XwYo-HrrjiDOhGCRwo-sgYRm7uBmtEyXmU/s400/DSC_1169.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238312896565842370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwaRPVXhyphenhyphenilVAz1CnOPImINqAANVUKwYn-r2OK3J3Wv5oVBHq56GPkQBqJAa4JPBGRGbOi4bXD6f8j5-CQDENtCExpFgMX2YTa4hEDgUH9lSEOSEoa57AMsvMJW1LNhcgg7Y00E8RTJI/s400/DSC_1201.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.jasonhouge.com">Jason Houge Photography</a></p>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-24521203850372254602008-08-22T06:39:00.000-07:002008-08-24T18:17:08.239-07:00An Eye-OpenerOver the last week or so, Chiva and I have made visits to four animal shelters/control facilities in the upper peninsula of Michigan. Thanks to your online donations I have been able to contribute $2000 to shelters across the nation thus far. It feels good and is needed so please continue to do so! I really want to get these numbers up.<br /><br />I am glad the Tour de Dog is "inspiring" many people as I like to read in the Guest Book. My goal is to continue to bike with Chiva and to run this website to raise awareness for all the problems and challenges animal shelters face. We need your involvement.<br /><br />The primitive Luce County Animal Control Facility visit in Newberry, MI, has been the most eye-opening stop in the Tour de Dog.<br /><br />About thirteen years ago, a Puerto Rican woman named Denise Erickson moved to Newberry. Once she learned about the animal control policy of the time she knew she had to get involved. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to revolutionize animal control in Luce County.<br /><br />Her biggest accomplishment in her mind was halting the use of the gas chamber that was used to euthanize animals. In the picture below, Chiva is seen in the gas chamber. Pipes were hooked up to car exhaust and the animals were left in the dark to suffocate. Chemical gas chambers are still used today in the United States to euthanize animals. I personally feel this is extremely unfortunate, unfair, and depressing. I also feel with a little bit of work it can be changed.<br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237352906182025058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUCHa66HIq1fjH5nLgVVr124Qd21zXjzSGe0h982tkmf-cZevO2zbdT63YHzgwlVtSzz3Af7m5siqzoxpFYr0lpOwOuNeRWFC2FGI3esUHKIQc1vqeMZSA2omlkiHi8GvpsZoLGPHhQ0/s400/gaschamber" border="0" /><br />Because no records were ever kept Denice has no idea how many animals were put down. She did know the control policy payed $5 for each animal killed. Some kind of animal control, huh?</p><p>When talking with Denise, it is clear how passionate she is for loving and caring for animals. In fact, she has dedicated her life to it and has received very, very little recognition. She is the lone animal control officer, and at her home has ten dogs, six cats, four horses, a donkey, a goat, and two ponies. All are well cared for.</p>Her goal is to replace the current facility built in the 60's (if it can even be called a facility) with a new, much improved one. Pet Pals, a group that was formed to help Denise, is working hard to raise funds for facility improvements. There is no heat in the winter (remember this is harsh winter country where temperatures plummet to negative 30 degrees) and only this year are they able to receive hot water. A washer and dryer are just thoughts.<br /><br />The new shelter may just be a dream because come November Denise may not even have a job. The county is voting on whether or not to keep the animal control facility. With no animal control, the dog and cat population will skyrocket, animal diseases will flourish, and the environment will become more dangerous. Animal chaos!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237354129897861010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr3nfdFrI_bxBqLYNROzcEw6VFeCfWMvnAV1BEgSIz618J78q7GdYcj0dCrk_dISF4wY5kaoNIMkSH8jfKgrq701buFSc3ek76VSoGqwz2G8eTXlvlHM3qyI63KjKOv_IMnPEqZ8Yoec/s400/DSC_0874.JPG" border="0" /><br />We all love our pets and animals in general. They give us 100% and drastically improve our lives. They need our help. Please, please get more in tune with the problems and challenges animal shelters face. Get involved. If you have a pet, you should feel responsible to give back. Let's not settle for such inadequate and unfair conditions.<br /><br />If you want to help Denise and all her efforts, please get in touch with her: <a href="mailto:lcac@up.net">lcac@up.net</a>. I ask you to save some happy hour money today or this weekend and help Denise. She needs donations, and she needs encouragement. Just because the animal shelter is not in your community does not make this okay. It is still in the United States, your country.<br /><br />Thank you to Denise and Pet Pals for all your efforts! Chiva and I and many other thousands of animals and people appreciate all you have done.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br /><br />David<br /><a href="mailto:tourdedog@gmail.com">tourdedog@gmail.com</a><br /><br />Corrected on August 24, 2008Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-57375719087750081902008-08-21T20:15:00.000-07:002008-08-21T21:38:07.062-07:00Tour de Dog Photos from Newberry, MichiganAnother day in the Tour de Dog, another set of excellent photos. Special thanks to Denice Kerr and Denice Erickson who organized our time in Newberry. The horses, ponies, and goats were spectacular!<br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237193568507233362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimgVKYwR2EfRhIPfRuk-eyUugF1yg_1bRG-yTAOvLwbZyp9cgVL3-BVS0JAzwvSd8gGnyMqnmzm_dBUhWG0xSvv0jUTzGtG06V8zXDLzXgbFOCFQPb1hZ7aj49lmwsNPBmmCcRVwL9VSc/s400/DSC02114.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237177970357056386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmrfqSRLtMN0bbcR6-LIH54l2pMyoMV9aTa4RlQ4ec5LZDyJzoAXsWyrwitAI11CV7VmK8YMsLGdKIoqRA6k5Ot3S2kKpHnoeaSfOgY2Cp-ALoIyBoSA-KRtVYR4OnuYnCNCkEGMSey6g/s400/DSC_0739.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivI4SjGMuCGdLF_u4o5JPBJVZmQSAS-k_L8Mzu3WKi-4LT04cQhR-_1hXm31aBArf12ykeP9fN-m1ENEMv8V_H0fwIlyerhAveYQjXScYEugAlnNP589jIdricFNBqhMHdjFEaJfXbm_0/s1600-h/DSC02139.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237191261286453298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivI4SjGMuCGdLF_u4o5JPBJVZmQSAS-k_L8Mzu3WKi-4LT04cQhR-_1hXm31aBArf12ykeP9fN-m1ENEMv8V_H0fwIlyerhAveYQjXScYEugAlnNP589jIdricFNBqhMHdjFEaJfXbm_0/s400/DSC02139.JPG" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237190764623339250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5RAlJas0TWwhL1HzwcGV73bWdBpHId1li3PTTzhLgm0riHy5CQeam9xrEi6HAxqfOi_MND6DcUy3C77Sc4D2LRK20E4AYdhMym9WTwM-DUx9yOdhis2N8CICYBQUyNqvCxKnDuXqB14/s400/DSC02127.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237190553829481762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxCPYJEO-iSCA3rTuffR5Al16i-k5otx_61pH4nJRFnD4db-GYbn8bbYYHDqzuEQORsEIY4IJ7izPglQJg-Adi-Nmx-CVqO7duDQRLUjxdoQURJ1VfWoEs6AM5hI1lzbYYyOXvbgIjIM/s400/DSC02141.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237193809306937106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh71W5bUYAiFOUKTF3IB211sJZ3qUB5qzWovL73Ft8Hj1cu__7uTsDfLbNvmD3KgF_W7_ZK0HJXZG_0lZXQR68uN17sHLVc3jQkp6Ykpisf9igsvSdONAXNb-R3vCqB0tU1jGl8rGS6Zgw/s400/DSC02125.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237178436796040306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1AAu2CmKw5yAjZtWl_1Q9azXQjTxb0aOzb7libL3gICp3OH0x-VgT5Pwnba2721ttMAihgH2hC3uBMWsQ6sHya7NzbJ-EizAXuNqzg5wPjplRkWJU0M6THP96Pt3EqT4EjEYNGztfKw/s400/DSC_0765.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237190154251125442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMs2dzncox3ShyuEVpnudKIR502PzQxHHhrilwp8Fx49uIkpIh1h8rGGCUV0uOr_0_Y-8GrXHJ7g9J1s1wXV5Et0nPbZ8p6VzAj_iB5iquAhhITluBYRpWnGzcFMOsEKbIj2s-6rjRLxU/s400/DSC_0863.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237189750019527266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCUCdK1_5_FiJEx4y4rC4fidaMKoedBBQSeFyo5S3JddQvWiZ2VHC9KitIi4Gz97HOJEwlD9iZmmJ14wbEmD3MFW9ganmjMwhNpTK5lQi4fgUXsBg6_dNDJKtUcbYZmUvadfw6F4S7fPA/s400/DSC_0861.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237188558970336610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdO2gZH6gARghuOh6V8-4IVTQzSG-wSiHS132fVIFRF8evcSogPUCZZI18jllbst38mXJAVtSsKdWDC5O5uXscfVz4RjDNu0geyoeLjeKpMSY4iDsWu2jKeOE07xlvrkLbZatAOpisXSM/s400/DSC_0801.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237180088086428546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eDOxsCGj_5ZCI7gzwuKnk1c7MFGljZTs76qbLrje1As6orKizyMMx2e4ATSo0JLP2fuQ33Ax3yPSYK1dPHOAtP1pdaiyoyQtpolkYCNkpoF7VFVaBsVgP3BvY1mfAaheTqJyY5tyW4w/s400/DSC_0896.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237184868301083506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kR5kmAKBf77-mylhVtYNqZCHcHsFJCxa5cNvAj03aw_Xarb82aHWOS_kuX-2yFEc7GwVmJULOXIjNN1kSZ_DJOy_UIDpJGtIFrTwpr9Hg9zA2toZ2JWpmCVA_hFfD3_BKCKBWWKRTW4/s400/DSC_0951.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237184437535437650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga-lwqJNJRRt3eXSCFAJOGrReMli50lZyvnFPRw4Kd9R-h_vI73W_uv1hxlkQ-li8ChT7gOczwnotVGn9dJ57kebZaldiO_q62Q_l31Rk28hc9t_gK7WJjXDfdq4WMTSI849XNE7b4Gt8/s400/DSC_1011.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237184204496917250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjteXrVN_Uim1VSY9pheWHD6QKILz3iHzHOf2IvWjQ_-V0slpQebOhVIWk-NrWTFxIymOLmh5t4e-cs8KGBiRGbZBxG44idNB7_aiHlSJhXYBsFiGb_r_K5TjkawWDGOh7ZWUfhsFupMyw/s400/DSC_1015.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237183550713897154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBbLm_XtqOi4pY4vI0R0w4Bsm_oOo1ckbCLILDgpp-Q1PX9KHoc5lZ1ktS9_Qy8dMNG7XeZme6Ko1HtG0ON-eLI3CNFbJDs1QGKMml65Nyv3RhQwBjwluCUMjzItEAdtJfVarjCMEh1w/s400/DSC_1068.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237183270470895378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0z1tviw48duyctOH1RzoYj-vtj3ruwg_pS23kPsZi9E1M45W0dkpsXgYMT6DJua7tSZ9TKEGYBSzpnKJl0e5hk-8CMXcCKR-icRIPmf5AyhUtfGxXYCxhWKB-bCTMQEFdsVmW5FlxzgM/s400/DSC_1058.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237182528937566834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiOUdxauXVxGkxSGzwZ8QbelEV-_FGSoUu-GzAAG0JhilqsPYompoo6XYfS3l5TyfwDTfFl9CloPKBFa8Inftadoo_yQGHZw4m3dii2yq__SkhCHXfZsXuc82aGBj8iZgGGQcnwjQdC8/s400/DSC_0949.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237181003295888658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJhrRirBjPGFTTcHwzyJ2F7VMyzdT18sQaKbMASp23YtYulzH6NXmglEU3FDorz7KJDzaxJ_iZk-wl8NL7QFIJX59GFf1y35W483AZ6r5UaqMFBbEJr2f5TBKj0a-cLtEj82T26Ep1tM4/s400/DSC_0936.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237180705581294706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8lyxo4hyphenhyphenthl5bskTw2-zJ92EQIDp0-03REdJ04CHQQv2fJDNU3CY1B4LxzxocePYulCWAnbNb2c6qdWrSae4fgoUPXiOkThV41ekP4uED1uJWRh0LKXWwqAHiwbm-KqNlfzjTrJhb18/s400/DSC_0916.JPG" border="0" /></div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-71265239487304857402008-08-20T20:36:00.001-07:002008-08-20T21:50:31.910-07:00Tour de Dog Photos of the Day<a href="http://www.jasonhouge.com">Jason Houge</a> continues to travel with Chiva and me and is doing an outstanding job of capturing each and every moment of the Tour de Dog. He will continue to be with us until we enter Ontario.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236811038183651650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuMmfGEDatK1LHpNaKF-a0bBsns-lWoiAgxjoBoGit-29cW3aB-D295hdUAfr0soe-iwSge44XGpIudhPQsia9wBUq4erFEvkZMLLarQs5jTl-xmlCZNvB6_NXdHUzy5sOoq0aqPiAmU/s400/DSC_0139.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236817373522003906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBvJojPmDcrtQ-yxcblWTCKu74tTUkWtvxGCUb9T7hr0SuothsgCj5mQnF5y1Uo_CaHZQDj7sy1L1xlt9FCmF1zd3xEy3ngHhg7LKMkQ3qd9R_AuKO2dOZ-1EoifolPgaymJycnB4v8OE/s400/DSC_0163.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236812826690477714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLvZQbHRoZUzy0fhz89wlIFODkr1D_DRw6qq_CpY6ccgZ-OTgeS0CyZ6aStLd5k1pJIcc5pG37dkhbNYGCUpxNJC-g_OWlxYFFVWNBG8nHn-YtCdvnhS_YpfCtzdNzye9KmRrumer52I/s400/DSC_0206.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236812022321491890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGuIuv7zASF7S-RTTFwslLvzcXMGFv2pSEXL_vLJVDjB20Q6q5bMsBSxWsKC8GjzwYRFC6lmvGBoi2q6jSzbYP_8qpXxG1ZPM8RWJDbQaYnUVXjWoT6AkDiMFAmNddZPgnzmAqV81zQY/s400/DSC_0198.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236815337047870402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqatRK8MZ-AvAHrcrGH4e7hRsQrdtc8JWc9QWS0QxwJQ5uMlFrPOd9JL49oNqxkXk43lGpbhkCGTZB8kEILWGa8F4bISr-fNzZL-DQKI3qZugrXv93fHQjSbGMP5kkyWm9BxFRwxfDaE/s400/DSC_0420.JPG" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236810721963536370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE1-iS2-2nsR3Sj0Ly8pWDfGiWGptHIF_B4hEM-m-npDMjZTRhvnjtjSpyPWKwGsGcuOwnTlUu1MfBWbdS0cL5hzjLCE0eUqTqCLSeSZqrPYH023mwGk5SYpiWBTRz4HFoYV-m_dXrUaE/s400/DSC_0579.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236814352139438514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcLwPCHD1aZY8yPFjw-heuq5IjOUg_CjFzqsydIAXyAGVnOh7qFdkJJTKQHsxxuVLrMNm0FCPXWdjiGQBP1gkHl_uBMibnYfMlyUJEUq0Qmkj7XYmPVmaOfcTqO5_GmhQr8sGfnSATVpw/s400/DSC_0733.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236814932934342018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDGJBaeTUreCFgfbDJ01FfoWz7UEFDhdA8OgmjkT-r6gXBQ-L9aiTGEHCei-FONYcP6gcdag_mNJ_Ix3eM_W9hE9Dai-Zbye7h3nIIgDl04nxy0tliZe3E7HDQo4lbtRF0A2P3xQ8NnI/s400/DSC_0534.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236815781503360306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguV7G3soAvc16MDAXqEaytXpTUUeSoDsnfwsL8GB6hUSYHCc0n4GV0jfxMNZ3ZlQqjTMm4eXld6zmh2lam3mJn13iJMBqhPoLclCzEZv1-UrWVGjDucmx84KhYDxAe9hKCzGvbQtTdHlc/s400/DSC_0700.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236818780404324898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsIarbkEYWKHj_EMmi-9V25binFZmtUHZdHhTwvuhfSykS9jVh0GV9-muZom1j5eQNIYNBPXOijnTunAdWLWPSF_VYoyn_8voWHq1kkSl8ia63WKSh0M8craYUwroHw4QrwCVTZ8WYbVw/s400/DSC_0119.JPG" border="0" />Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-41539063796640127442008-08-19T19:48:00.000-07:002008-08-19T20:35:57.092-07:00Tour de Dog Photos of the Day<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236426837034175938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigaQFpnv16cTrqBFphEKX-TOw9dizinCzTZSqc3tiyG6nr7lE29jsOvjIvBSniK16LumZKpe1x8VYsXxiKdu4NuvYfsXt1c-KZS7NPNaOHfqxSs6Db-smZXvNLqLuYlcY100peQ0tqnEQ/s400/DSC_9728.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236428181377657122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpX4XBA8jmEkHFTmcGsdAkMhxUfLldj5LexYelYSINzTzr7wYmDZIAEsXw7hY5KPp90NbwudODm9q-m47_gZlg8BZ9L7qHpeo8ZZuO-U-o3GjTs2fj0e0zrK-uSKF-1_Z8FRP8Ih5FNk/s400/DSC_9846.JPG" border="0" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7dXQl_ONTjDBmBHASnks7cAYLxb8DpvXihb42ubzBv5sDH1E5-uHqjhQsM4BZwLSHUT32AZYcvy2E44ENzJsbDYXIh1M45MNbAW9MIBJiAW6Y5uKUROD63RoYL2-AalbpgnPebgmK_i0/s1600-h/DSC_9955.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236428668371092290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7dXQl_ONTjDBmBHASnks7cAYLxb8DpvXihb42ubzBv5sDH1E5-uHqjhQsM4BZwLSHUT32AZYcvy2E44ENzJsbDYXIh1M45MNbAW9MIBJiAW6Y5uKUROD63RoYL2-AalbpgnPebgmK_i0/s400/DSC_9955.JPG" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236427804777245010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19YIslH4rIE0RkR_Mya1wMRgAu-cmuKTPr_uq19tZnnnWb_5gpBifOIE9AUHBtAKDh-3xoM8ezj8rtEQDejqECkAOpkUB295DyH6eTSwRa2YeYONKGhcWmuyDoIj8Gt0FK6_BRbzjZRs/s400/DSC_9845.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center">PHOTOS taken by <a href="http://www.jasonhouge.com/">Jason Houge</a></p>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-57635228717143945012008-08-17T04:12:00.001-07:002008-08-17T05:16:37.051-07:00Gaining Momentum<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235443037340843682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijwHGk2X4RswFYVoziz5NSSgqGf4SnDMFM2-ezMak4nvMufn2vZhsY7abgKmHQ-Crukaj0Vj5Nq5oNotpi7btZWvPe7UpBleFzsK92m5dkphPpw3e6ZfS-lrt5y7MWKYpE5QNJe1oxqd8/s400/DSC_8088.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>The last several days have seen Chiva and me exploring and visiting northeastern Wisconsin. With the help of my new manager Denice and the local communitity residents and officials, Chiva and I are making the most of our time on the road. <div><br />Now that Denice is working hard behind the scenes, we are able to organize "Meet and Greets", presentations, fundraiser events, tours of animal shelters, and media coverage. I am so excited because I know we needed the help and will now be able to raise much more animal welfare awareness.<br /><br /></div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235445612018672034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3P0SStT_iCo1EZpUcxHVgvnKPA1IxJLoo3es6iiEWqTEWi2FDspFoFl-dux8eeDwBLTE0Zl8i6tpGI8Cu1YhN1LmOCBMOR2vBeAAmrqzJb3Qe6Km_5sm5ZTV3rKNo6NMQdsW0H9S7iuM/s400/Boys+%26+Girls+Club+8-14-08.jpg" border="0" /><br />Visiting animal shelters is opening my eyes more and more each day. They all face numerous challenges and in most cases have inadequate resources. For example, the Menominee Animal Shelter makes do with little space. The shelter receives some 1,200 animals a year, but its only surgical room is crammed into a kitchen where other isolation animals are still present. Local families who are facing foreclosures are relinquishing their pets in order to save money. The shelter is becoming overwhelmed and conditions are extremely tight. </div><br /><div>All animal shelters have their own unique needs, but they also share many in common. Fundraising and volunteers come from the community. If local residents are not pitching in to help, the animals feel the burden. Please visit your local shelter for additional information on how you can get involved.</div><br /><div>Thanks again to all those who are helping. Together we will make a difference. </div><div><br />Here are some pictures from the last few days that were taken by new good friends and excellent photographers Jason Houge and Michael Peters. I think they are some of the best pictures yet.</div><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwp5fpMHeSQquOIecUp74FED1syGciw0S1_da959OsMB2LAih-ci_g_Bxnn3NehYlwfstL9S8lnkI7kNK8JA-_KLgsQKs9WHKs5Jo-6-FPpweQOQmtZ6RUX_D-r4XPF7NGpIePM-vM8o/s1600-h/DSC_8047.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235452101596648546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwp5fpMHeSQquOIecUp74FED1syGciw0S1_da959OsMB2LAih-ci_g_Bxnn3NehYlwfstL9S8lnkI7kNK8JA-_KLgsQKs9WHKs5Jo-6-FPpweQOQmtZ6RUX_D-r4XPF7NGpIePM-vM8o/s400/DSC_8047.jpg" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235450935344122402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMV9zUwiRTp71jdt1_EdA7M7L_6U1LoU6HsBsoxbYwPvhyphenhyphenRC9ZAEm2gtrbPL1jP3NjQ1fuT-EoIEBhBa8Zue7cv2XU6B3CtivZZrZb6rF0jD11U5e0vH81V1kJSZtXPP-AI_2JIDjOs7k/s400/DSC_8233.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGomAGp68oPc0vhkqeB7o98HhU1tRJV5ZQbU1UGRgecdcLjCT4-bD0ivpD-vZ-bLy66ZwKu4ZJotecPjYxDkNRG4eIz2ZYaE9hJa6w8BhA4eiBsrxqOXojlfwBCqo_JW8i86JK8gbGfE/s1600-h/DSC_8454.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235451709920911218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGomAGp68oPc0vhkqeB7o98HhU1tRJV5ZQbU1UGRgecdcLjCT4-bD0ivpD-vZ-bLy66ZwKu4ZJotecPjYxDkNRG4eIz2ZYaE9hJa6w8BhA4eiBsrxqOXojlfwBCqo_JW8i86JK8gbGfE/s400/DSC_8454.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235450794767665010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzZWd8zYuljVEZQkSglyT02TWQ0URlQsrY0FHR6KxTunBwqLjWq7nltHO22WvUmnOHpAGCx1Aec_kqldCUlEc7f_uXpv5LM0bxAHzDcED1m7Fkx-QzQeDiqKVOdh3Qz3AuS-_ZRLxf-sA/s400/DSC_8155.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjj-UckEferNJxcvB59ZaVJu1VAv7MS6t25oCbZqtlBZKBET-uRqGMXYJDKB4VpJGvXOScRDdxTGyZBTYeIP0-Rht59ix-eOFtFZGSQXQak07A_oEVeDmQjFkt-o48E6b0IupQu01VsWQ/s1600-h/DSC_8358.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235451511047873602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjj-UckEferNJxcvB59ZaVJu1VAv7MS6t25oCbZqtlBZKBET-uRqGMXYJDKB4VpJGvXOScRDdxTGyZBTYeIP0-Rht59ix-eOFtFZGSQXQak07A_oEVeDmQjFkt-o48E6b0IupQu01VsWQ/s400/DSC_8358.jpg" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235456049442231794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip648lOzarTMa6ws1DOGjmdSPlnT4I3tARTbOdTkWLzpz-SE4e3UK1fDNtnH67N_YJ5-j3Y4v1jL9K1oMov5daPqzd2oD1op36Z_H8ieGaMgjc0Nwo1g4M2IleGcuHjQPCN2CN_YOxVSE/s400/DSC_8062.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235452691173216338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRlZ3zumMIR2hWPso9QdOxDdsbbCtZ-tj8g78e81qQtGUGGpfslxZwN9N9Ws3cpu5XvrnMJGxerxbKjrE7svSBt0Ye7F-48jsSd8q-Y6nuzG0v_-HMVxiKup3VhZAzNqnBSIq3IVoRg_g/s400/Chiva's+dinner.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lZNRba8-C26DG0Gk5kIoeezeP4nALDLIMYaPogizVz5LPjeA_-vJo_B-Zx34Urkh1Z0GOz0v5oUS_DWE03KL41OvNh7RvsFHpfWi8NYUtnX8KbTvEbHARs5Jei4aCgmDnL4T39SPvfg/s1600-h/DSC_8275.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235451243630235794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lZNRba8-C26DG0Gk5kIoeezeP4nALDLIMYaPogizVz5LPjeA_-vJo_B-Zx34Urkh1Z0GOz0v5oUS_DWE03KL41OvNh7RvsFHpfWi8NYUtnX8KbTvEbHARs5Jei4aCgmDnL4T39SPvfg/s400/DSC_8275.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235452931557959026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNXnzddJxZcDv-7Eo5ieaq2sgBEEGDCXRjWsrAK3DgYuPbMqcMrQ9Nk7K4gMOLs-gOSLMsBMT24HuQ5BYEHM_RVg0Rz1iYuSwL6NBDQWlgtcJ1EJ9mfFOJ4srROvUOigdMyM24GNonB0/s400/Getting+Massages.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235452825464095698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAk4IrDg1IYZ8_9JBObKZbllsFzaQgJPTdwOWAdefoGqet_nsbpYcPyuZDWpA0INQm20ItfUln2IHh4cao5bwl7zvk0sKS0V9n1aBDyKRq1bva61Nylkdn06ULTuprqFMCTVlLk9T9lQQ/s400/Tranquility+Spa.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235455847260755458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwkHDDpoW3L3nb9WTq81R_Usj4D9P6xs9T4C3CnP1CTdpRzFO3ogCBDHPukA8cMj-0PjG4FOe1HOiXvrcnKPzSUjRchxuE-2MOByaVJ-tJdaLdBiapVoCR6Ou3TboEvSNGK5StSiSSlQ/s400/DSC_8475.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtgw08nU74OP1btIyOsexG4CYnX334OPsKp1ihvrarpMz5-AS0PyYHnMSH3YZOU0-Kg64k5RGi89vcHFl161sgFsTxUZJwtlZh53-A06d2rTHSe1CJhcaLc4xz6uhYBau2N3KKwGdsns/s1600-h/DSC_8237.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235451012357472482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtgw08nU74OP1btIyOsexG4CYnX334OPsKp1ihvrarpMz5-AS0PyYHnMSH3YZOU0-Kg64k5RGi89vcHFl161sgFsTxUZJwtlZh53-A06d2rTHSe1CJhcaLc4xz6uhYBau2N3KKwGdsns/s400/DSC_8237.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-53707995200117421912008-08-16T05:53:00.000-07:002008-08-16T06:00:57.854-07:00Tour de Dog Photo of the Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghc2OQCrcOugzBsjx4L9KyuYyfwPZZ0KG_saCQsj8pKSrZFJDZqzb3K9H78VGYPkMqMxngbhFhUhr8JM0PaOdD16rrlhFexM5sf0EC2e0R0ahXvkoVrgsKKmRofBXuv5eruj57eOibgEo/s1600-h/DSC_8172.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235098195700451474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghc2OQCrcOugzBsjx4L9KyuYyfwPZZ0KG_saCQsj8pKSrZFJDZqzb3K9H78VGYPkMqMxngbhFhUhr8JM0PaOdD16rrlhFexM5sf0EC2e0R0ahXvkoVrgsKKmRofBXuv5eruj57eOibgEo/s400/DSC_8172.jpg" border="0" /></a>One of my favorite pictures of the Tour de Dog thus far. Chiva and I are in Marinette, WI, and will be attending a fundraiser for the <a href="http://www.mashelter.org/">Menominee Animal Shelter</a> this morning at <a href="http://www.myfarmgarden.com/">My Farm Garden</a>. Chiva will be getting a bath!Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-33666334319647166702008-08-12T16:10:00.000-07:002008-08-12T16:18:00.379-07:00Tour de Dog Photos of the Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZwqUszHwVd22LAolBGVl5vmMJeKweehMm4fqqneJDlAuCdmG3P0m7oDaF_cJ0E0lKOjNrUoxqbJTt82UlEL0LCCPb4G7eD5QpZBZMuGMJe3KTIaAlNdh7Bfdv7PbIeZyngXbJunsouU/s1600-h/Wisconsin+012.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233774264879750946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZwqUszHwVd22LAolBGVl5vmMJeKweehMm4fqqneJDlAuCdmG3P0m7oDaF_cJ0E0lKOjNrUoxqbJTt82UlEL0LCCPb4G7eD5QpZBZMuGMJe3KTIaAlNdh7Bfdv7PbIeZyngXbJunsouU/s400/Wisconsin+012.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05uoHwzDzqfIuPdnYlp8DvEI0f3ZMFIxNLiPv8tGVvJJB0pyPEdp7w2S61Vrno8QzYR2Gou_HvdVP98ifkKp1pgp341mV0Iy5WsySvLNWMyqzfnUGaSn1l6lnyas2lRQmE9NTokorcIc/s1600-h/Wisconsin+021.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233773854939299186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05uoHwzDzqfIuPdnYlp8DvEI0f3ZMFIxNLiPv8tGVvJJB0pyPEdp7w2S61Vrno8QzYR2Gou_HvdVP98ifkKp1pgp341mV0Iy5WsySvLNWMyqzfnUGaSn1l6lnyas2lRQmE9NTokorcIc/s400/Wisconsin+021.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233773504592038546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTcsmKmgqmIjytGR7w9BaNvSznYYyLjCaK7NyubuBdvoCDglXZvlQLvafT5c4K2cu13oGIg5RHa5Or50sWFYM2k7OgsEpUccbld_FV0iZRenYLe8brq_8UAvUwKPzZH-jHZLl0HOdwdU/s400/Wisconsin+011.jpg" border="0" /></div>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-66097666686990480142008-08-11T05:44:00.000-07:002008-08-11T06:50:23.843-07:00Time in the Brew City Complete<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233242367901724018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthxriYda_dmnCZOFt2hX69CLDrnjsj6NmmeBeXo4VKfh4H_JcjTFTqCJw__cA1OWQuSKDudDwoUn4X-T0qO9Xp8Ipq1bvSKr30P9V-jm8X5l70DLZGe2mwRT0mDcOtEr2As1vjnHRvcE/s400/DSC02061.JPG" border="0" /><br />After spending a weekend in Milwaukee, Chiva and I are now moving on to Green Bay. It was my first trip to the Brew City and as usual with the Tour de Dog, there are many people to thank.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233245374462824322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIXNUMGReODWuD8hUElX5Cyv5JjCr1fxDzjbE4HsclnkJZnhcg3IsUtSmSKrXEg2Z6ykDErBZGjQvlKOesPeLuVsC-yAEOT2F-sfYmDdcTWZkYgPteJUVy1b5AUgkS3_-4XR5khmS2H4/s400/milwaukeeskyline.gif" border="0" /><br />First and foremost, I would like to thank Denice Kerr of the Seattle area. Denice contacted me and is now helping with logistics for the Tour de Dog. Even though we have never met, she has amazingly and graciously stepped in to fill a tremendous void for Chiva and me. A BIG THANK YOU TO DENICE. Together we will be a positive force.<br /><br />Secondly, thank you to Father Paul of the Sacred Church of Jesus. Father Paul allowed me to pitch my tent in his church, and I immensely enjoyed our conversations.<br /><br />Also thanks to John and his wonderful family in Highland Park, Illinois, for taking Chiva and me into their home.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233242163946089762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJDQEOxWvVq4kNQ1LN_UOV_ryBYrmQkEYUEdgyd82h-Pnx36LfLGe-SIeBzl4BtZtZdkxVz5uTjyZyegaUYrOtCiwoVNb0kFZ6HAAwXpQXSTwV-Uh7tPTbaEzk1Ke3OoMMgTnUv5oG6o/s400/DSC02056.JPG" border="0" /><br />In addition, a new friend from Chicago named Sarah made the trip up to Milwaukee. Even though I went to Georgia and she went to Auburn for college (huge SEC rivals for those of you who did not know), we get along just fine!<br /><br />The big activity in Milwaukee had to be my tour of the <a href="http://www.wihumane.org/">Wisconsin Humane Society</a>. Of all the shelters I have visited this trip, I was most impressed with this one. The facility was appealing for a variety reasons but what topped my list was its <a href="http://www.wihumane.org/education/default.aspx">committment to education</a>. If we are going to put an end to puppy mills and find good homes for cats and dogs, we must teach anyone and everyone to respect and to properly care for animals.<br /><br />The Puppy Haven Project is well underway, but at least 935 dogs will still be entering the facility. In fact some of the haven female canines are still having puppies today!<br /><br />I would like to sincerely thank those who have donated towards my cause. Chiva and I really appreciate the opportunity to help, and we contributed $500 to help with the incoming animals. Presenting a check to the Wisconsin Humane Society was very rewarding, and I have the utmost confidence that they will use every dollar wisely. Although I would love to give more, anything helps. I will keep you informed with respect to the Puppy Kennel Haven Project.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233243692475646098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGeDcn2B5RK4JsA907_k5DUNOFc-KeUjTjxyMesQLrupiEyzp2ntWmq7SiS9enz6KhB_meMv9_TNfJIg3h7DFCuhF10G2-8Sy3K2AFfiSUmEnwI1wk38fv6Q1JZsik3TWbk_EDJqMXpU/s400/DSC02064.JPG" border="0" /><br />Time to pack up and head to Green Bay!<br /><br />Best wishes from the road,<br />David and Chiva<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233243385827453906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv46oRVbx4ar7OeDRewpCHejkDHw8ZiARQy18LOKA45rjCFchLK52e2qMhqKGs830g_8JjEI4ONM8vRXysrtxvTQyJfzmgEtTkfIcmUwUces-ISSFz37N4_vu0yEPA8E7ywtGzAs8N89I/s400/DSC02059.JPG" border="0" /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrXYEl5osKh3MFXEWr28oSo0GF8TLkMBCrUG7cgXz7Rv0lcERrsKmxMHjRmrmWaUT9pMMptCbQ5KZmo2xMTr7s5a5pxzSxF7tFPLdxSNo-gQvVq8VH_nBl5F7DbCa4RHxvLM-6GljkGA/s1600-h/DSC02065.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233242741172510978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrXYEl5osKh3MFXEWr28oSo0GF8TLkMBCrUG7cgXz7Rv0lcERrsKmxMHjRmrmWaUT9pMMptCbQ5KZmo2xMTr7s5a5pxzSxF7tFPLdxSNo-gQvVq8VH_nBl5F7DbCa4RHxvLM-6GljkGA/s400/DSC02065.JPG" border="0" /></a>Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3758615615176358020.post-68751656297832534682008-08-07T14:56:00.000-07:002008-08-07T15:14:43.290-07:00Wisconsin Humane Society Buying Out Puppy Kennel HavenIn an unprecedented move, the <a href="http://www.wihumane.org/default.aspx">Wisconsin Humane Society</a> (WHS) is buying out one of the largest dog breeding facilities in the nation. At least 1,200 dogs will have vastly improved lives. <br /><br />The dogs are to be spayed and neutered thus ending the production cycle. Please join me in applauding the WHS for taking this action and ending the Puppy Kennel Haven. Chiva and I will be making a visit to the WHS August 10th, and will be writing a check to help officials and volunteers find good homes for the 1,200 incoming dogs. Thank you to those who have donated and thus enabled Chiva and me to help with such an urgent and worthy project. If you would like to contribute to this check, <a href="http://sylvesterdave.googlepages.com/donate2">please donate here</a>.Chiva and David Sylvesterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15815452902772541551noreply@blogger.com4