Wild pack of basenjis in rural Florida

[MacPack]

http://www2.tbo.com/video/2010/jan/06/dogs-running-wild-fend-frigid-temperatur-42299/video-news/

This is the url to some local video footage I saw on the TV stations web site tonight. There were still photos too, that looked like basenjis. That is what caught my eye at first.

http://www2.tbo.com/photoalbum/2010/jan/06/two-county-animal-investigation/5/

It is probably 20 degrees there tonight, at least there are about 20 of them to huddle together.

There used to be a BYB down there, he must have just let them take over this property.
Anne

[lvoss]

Only 16 live on the property? I can't believe the county has been so slow to act. Those pot bellies on the puppies are probably because they are filled with worms.

[Basenjimamma]

Despicable..I can not believe that animal control in that area does not do anything to help the dogs and to prevent this from being what it is...a dog dump..poor animals..I sure hope they stay alive though this freeze..

[MacPack]

They adults aren't too skinny so the owner must be feeding them, he evidently has said no one can come on his property. If they had safe shelter, vetting and good food, they might be happier there than in concrete boxes at animal control (kill shelter).
You know as much as I know at this point, I just found that a few minutes ago.

[Basenjimamma]

You are right, they don't look skinny or starved and they were not afraid of the people on the other side of the fence..still it needs to be stopped..

[Quercus]

Oh my God!!! How is that allowed? That at least 16 dogs can just run wild? Doesn't Animal Control have jurisdiction to go on private property without the owner's consent; to at least investigate?

[MacPack]

If I could, I would give them a heated, air conditioned shelter, food, vet care, and as much human companionship as they wanted and gradually socialize them, but let them all stay together!

With the media interest, animal services will likely take them, or better, force the owner to take better care of them. Wish a had a huge farm with space for a project like that, but I don't.

[MacPack]

That is a very rural area, lots of empty acreage, large farms, cattle grazing land. A fenced property out there could have dozens of dogs, as long as they didn't get out and bother other people, no one would know.

Animal services is locally overwhelmed and probably has these dogs as a low priority, as the they appear nourished and not abused. They have recently confiscated dogs from 2 different puppymills, matted, sick little dogs that have filled them up. Not defending them, just locally under-budgeted and overfilled.

[nobarkus]

They don't look all that bad from those still shots but it's the shelter from the cold issue that concerns me.

[Quercus]

True....they don't look sick or skinny...and there are a lot of shots of them looking pretty darn happy.....but, it just freaks me out that no one is caring for them...and that they are just reproducing pell-mell....Is it really going to be 20 degrees in Florida? yikes...I'd better stock up on OJ now....

[nobarkus]

True....they don't look sick or skinny...and there are a lot of shots of them looking pretty darn happy.....but, it just freaks me out that no one is caring for them...and that they are just reproducing pell-mell....Is it really going to be 20 degrees in Florida? yikes...I'd better stock up on OJ now....

They look quite fit and actually in better shape than those living in crates in basement kennels. Maybe there's shelter on that land you just can't see from the fence line. I don't know.

[Kananga]

Yea, I suppose in Florida they don't have some of the same laws that we have up here when it comes to canines living outside. Warmer months require approved shading and the winter months requires an approved dog house (that meets certain guidelines).

This cold snap is a bit of a rare event, but still... strange that they'd allow a property owner to have that many dogs within city limits.

[Quercus]

At the end of the still photos, it looks like they took a bunch of dogs out of this guy's house at another location, in St. Pete? Including a BUNCH of tiny, tiny puppies. Anne, do you know if the B community can help in any way?

[AJs Human]

I think the conditions are deplorable. The dogs, while seemingly well-fed, appear to be allowed to breed however they want to. That is bad enough.

However, keep in mind this is Florida. I just checked the weather in the area and the coldest it is supposed to get is 31F. Our dogs are very hardy because they basically live wild in Africa and are often not provided shelter and have to scrounge for food. They probably already have thick undercoats.

I believe the dogs will be rescued after public pressure is placed on local animal control. There are legal procedures that have to be followed. Regardless of how we would like to see these animals removed immediately, the law must be followed and evidence has to be gathered. Have faith...in both the dogs and in the system. It works slowly in Florida for animals, but it does work.

[MacPack]

Other than the weather we are currently having, the dogs are probably less stressed than they would be at the shelter with barking dogs all around, their pack all divided, on a concrete floor in a cage. Hope the owner will be forced to spay/neuter and care properly for them. The puppies, at least, need to be removed and homed, though!

[Quercus]

Other than the weather we are currently having, the dogs are probably less stressed than they would be at the shelter with barking dogs all around, their pack all divided, on a concrete floor in a cage. Hope the owner will be forced to spay/neuter and care properly for them. The puppies, at least, need to be removed and homed, though!

I agree Anne. That sounds like a really reasonable goal.

[tanza]

And if these dogs are unsocialized, they had already Packed... and that means survial of the fittest.... meaning lots of fights for social standing in the pack. This happens many times to hoarders that keep all the dogs outside in pens/groups. While the conditions they live in and/or the dogs themselves may not be bad, the problem is the pack situation

[nobarkus]

Other than the weather we are currently having, the dogs are probably less stressed than they would be at the shelter with barking dogs all around, their pack all divided, on a concrete floor in a cage. Hope the owner will be forced to spay/neuter and care properly for them. The puppies, at least, need to be removed and homed, though!

I agree too Anne. They are better off there then in concrete cells with the stress of dogs barking and crying 24/7. I agree with Pat as well, no one there watching or supervising and and so any fighting and injuries that may occur do not get attended to. Those 2 guys in the video did not mention they saw any fighting.

[Quercus]

I agree too Anne. They are better off there then in concrete cells with the stress of dogs barking and crying 24/7. I agree with Pat as well, no one there watching or supervising and and so any fighting and injuries that may occur do not get attended to. Those 2 guys in the video did not mention they saw any fighting.

And the dogs don't look like they have been fighting. Could well be that there isn't a lot of fighting, because there isn't a resource control issue. If the guy is feeding them plenty (which he says he is, and their condition indicates he is), fighting (probably) only becomes an issue when there are limited resources...for most of us with multiple dogs, the human attention/status is the most valued resource, so we have fighting occasionally.

[Basenjimamma]

..just saw this on my facebook page...from The Basenji Magazine's page

http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/jan/06/062156/dogs-seized-pinellas-wimauma-group-shivers-cold/

Hopefully they are one step closer in getting these dogs the help they need/deserve, whether shelter form the cold or vetting. This man needs to get his day in court, IMO.

[nobarkus]

And the dogs don't look like they have been fighting. Could well be that there isn't a lot of fighting, because there isn't a resource control issue. If the guy is feeding them plenty (which he says he is, and their condition indicates he is), fighting (probably) only becomes an issue when there are limited resources...for most of us with multiple dogs, the human attention/status is the most valued resource, so we have fighting occasionally.

And there is plenty of space too. Crowding can cause fighting.

[Kona]

Anne - please let us know if anything new develops and we can help. Can't help but wonder if our Kona girl may have been part of this pack before she was picked up by the humane society. We are happy to help rehome to prevent them from being killee.

Just send me an e-mail over the weekend if anything new turns up. I will be in Gainesville but Justin will be home.

Let's just hope they can get these pups some shelter from this weather over the next few days. Also if the puppies they confiscated turn up in a shelter hopefully the Tampa group can band together and make sure we can save them.

Keep us posted.

[MacPack]

Will do, Lisa. The local BRAT person is working with the Pinellas SPCA and BRAT will officially help as well. As the dogs are not in any acute distress (according to the Hillsborough animal control person who went there) they can't be confiscated without legal steps, which evidently are in progress. The dogs and pups that WERE confiscated in St. Pete yesterday are not listed yet at the SPCA.


We are trying to find the address of the property and see if food drops are needed. If we could just take a hay bale to insulate the culverts they use for shelter and drop a 40 lb bag of food every few days, I think they will be fine till things are decided...they have been getting along there for years, evidently! I think they must have dug dens somewhere, they have 5 acres! Our local BRAT person says that the dogs of his breeding that she has fostered and homed are very sturdy and socialize well.

Will keep Justin posted if anything changes.

[lvoss]

Be very careful about doing food drops and providing bedding material because you may be preventing the county from making the case they need to get the warrant to seize them.

[MacPack]

Local TV ran an update this evening:
http://www2.tbo.com/video/2010/jan/07/dogs-running-wild--09818/video-news/

The dogs (estimated at around 50) are playing, lounging in the sun. Shows a lean-to of sorts and I'm willing to bet there is a den dug in there behind boxes. Animal control was out there again today and is doing it "by the books" so it sticks when they make their case.

It is warmer today but expected to have freezing rain this weekend. Basenjis usually find a way to be dry, I imagine this long established pack has some shelter somewhere on that 5 acres (at least I surely hope so).

[Basenjimamma]

Thanks for the update Anne..
I hope the animal control will do the right thing and seize these dogs and get them vetted. They all seem pretty wellfed so starvation isn't as big of a worry, but shelter and worms and such would be. Even if he feeds the dogs, aren't there laws and such that prevents one man to have taht many dogs on one property?
Here in Houston, depending on where you live it can be from 1 dog allowed to three..never in the 45+ range. I realize all states have different laws, but I am curious as to what goes in Florida..

[lvoss]

There are probably laws limiting the number of animals but if they use those laws only then he will be allowed to keep up to that number and they will likely have this situation again in a few years. They said he was already cited 2 years ago when he had only 7 dogs on the property. Animal control wants to build a case so none of the dogs have to go back to living in those conditions.

[Basenjimamma]

Yes , you are right, this man needs to loose all his animal owning priviledges..
I was just wondering how it got to where it is..crazy, he even says himself that he has tried to catch them and have them spayed/neutered, but he has been unable to...

[YodelDogs]

never mind

[MacPack]

He has 2 properties, a home in St. Pete, where the confiscated dogs were living with him, that is where he was cited 2 years ago.

These dogs are on a very rural piece of property in another county. The law says dogs need to be licensed but I don't think there is a limit on the number of dogs way out in the country. I guess we have to be patient.

I am a minimal BRAT member, I do transport, etc., but they are standing by to help this situation, so if anyone wants to contribute money or think about fostering, this is a good time to build the bank balance and participate! I know this is way over the heads of our little dog park group, so I am glad BRAT is standing by to help.

[MacPack]

Just saw the evening news, the dozens of wild basenjis have been caught, including a large litter (or 2) of 2-3 week old pups that were found in a burrow. The dogs were not afraid of people, at least till they started penning some up, then they all started howling and screaming. Tonight's freezing rain predictions evidently spurred the authorities to action. While the dogs are probably frightened and miserable in a shelter, they are warm and safe and fed.
They said it was quite a challenge for the animal control people; heck, catching 2 or 3 that are pets can be a challenge!
That's all I know for now.

[MacPack]

Sorry, here is the link to that video:

http://www2.tbo.com/video/2010/jan/08/wild-dogs-have-warm-shelter--77030/video-news/

[AJs Human]

Hopefully the Humane Society has listened to people familiar with Basenji behavior. I did get a chuckle out of the grand howl they set up. Very typical Basenji. They may not be in as bad social condition as originally thought. I heard the phrase "Not afraid of humans" in the report. It may be possible to rehome them. Hopefully BRAT keeps us posted.

[Basenjimamma]

Thanks for the update Anne.
Is there any way to let the authorities know what they are dealing with..not only are these dogs somewhat wild they are also basenjis meaning aloof by nature..they are not necessarily wild and unmanageable, at least they don't come across as that as the police car was driving through the property or as the cop was walking it, they were somewhat running along, not running away or in defense mode..I don't know if that would help in rescue efforts or in capturing them.

Again, thanks for the update..and yes I loved the howling..to cool..pretty scary sounding to someone not familiar with the breed though..I bet.

[MacPack]

They are at county Animal Control, but in the past they have worked with rescue. Things will be tied up in legal proceedings for awhile. The owner could conceivably provide shelter, pay for their vetting and sterilization and get them back. No one knows at this time. I feel bad for them, frightened and separated from all they have known. Now we just wait and see.

[LizNewton]

Report from BRAT:

Thank you for your concern about the Florida basenjis in the news, including the 12 confiscated from an individual's St. Petersburg property in Pinellas County by the SPCA and the 33 confiscated from his Wimauma property in HillsboroughCounty by Animal Control. BRAT is aware of their situation and has made contact with these organizations through our Florida District Coordinator, Pam Hamilton. All dogs, though in physical custody of these two organizations, are not currently in legal custody of either group. They will have to wait until ownership is determined in custody hearings prior to determining what their future fate will be. They are "evidence" until that time and, as such, cannot be seen by the general public. They can only be handled by veterinarians and authorized staff. If and when the SPCA and Hillsborough Animal Control have legal custody of this group of dogs, BRAT will be available to help. To avoid confusion with the SPCA and Animal Control, we would like to only have one person contact these organizations. We have appointed Pam Hamilton as the official Basenji Rescue and Transport contact. As always, we will continue to cooperate with both the SPCA Hillsborough Animal control, providing assistance whenever they can accept it. Thanks for your concern and offers of assistance. We will let people know when and if help is needed from the Basenji community. I have added to the end of this message a series of links to newspaper article and news videos about this group of Basenjis. Sincerely, Debbi JohnsonBRAT Treasurer & DirectorGermantown, TNdebbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net Here are the links from the first day, second day, then the confiscationday.
http://www2.tbo.com/video/2010/jan/06/dogs-running-wild-fend-frigid-temperatur-42299/video-news/ http://www2.tbo.com/photoalbum/2010/jan/06/two-county-animal-investigation/5/
http://www2.tbo.com/video/2010/jan/07/dogs-running-wild--09818/video-news/ http://www2.tbo.com/video/2010/jan/0...30/video-news/

[AJs Human]

Ms. Newton, your post makes perfect sense. There is no need to confuse things by having everyone contact them separately. I, for one, will watch news releases and wait for BRAT to indicate the next move regarding rescue and rehoming.

[sharronhurlbut]

I do know that BRAT will do what they can, when/if the dogs are released. It could take a long time...sigh.

[sharronhurlbut]

Update from Debbi from BRAT............
This situation did not occur overnight. The SPCA has been working on this
for years. The dogs' owner generally has not been breeding to sell the dogs.
If the dogs were being sold, authorities might have been able to do
something about the situation earlier, since selling legally requires health
certificates and vetting.

Some of the dogs may not appear to be pure basenjis, but their appearance
may be a result of the introduction to his pack of some of the African
bloodlines inported in the late 80's and subsequent.

If you would like to know more about the African Stock Project and see
pictures of basenjis within the project that show variations similar to the
confiscated group, please browse through this site:

http://www.basenji.org/african/project.htm

In the past, we have rescued a number of basenjis from this individual,
either directly or through the SPCA. BRAT fosters that have come from this
individual very often have had characteristics of the more recent African
bloodlines that are discussed and pictured on that site. The confiscated
dogs may have similar color variations, looser tails, bigger ears, thicker
coats, larger sizes and thicker bones to go proportionally with their larger
size.

The mature dogs will obviously need very careful handling to become
socialized with humans. Even some of the fairly young puppies from this
individual have demonstrated behavioral issues and fear when not carefully
introduced to their new environments. Though most of the fosters from this
individual were placed into the SPCA or rescue at a fairly early age, at
least one mature foster from this individual was rehabilitated into a
normal, doggy-park frequenting basenji that enjoys hiking, camping,
beaching, and visiting extended family and friends.

Even though their future may be much different from what they have always
known, with the right help, it can still be a bright and pleasant future.

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

[Basenjimamma]

Thanks for the updates Liz and Sharron..sounds like things are moving along in the right direction even if slow..keep us posted..

[sharronhurlbut]

Here is a note from someone who took on of the adult b's from this fellow. If your wanting to help these dogs, and can make room in your homes, you might find out what a wonder it is to help b's like this...
My Sana is one of the mature dogs taken from this man about 5 years ago. She is a capped tri with Fula chracteristics, a nicely curled tail, fairly large ears and a lovely coat. After her initial fostering, where she experienced the first gentle human contact (possibly her first actual human contact) she came to us. We have had the luxury of allowing her to develop at her own rate and she has come a million miles from the terrified wild creature that was first rescued. She will never be "normal", but she is healthy, happy and continues to grow and change before our eyes. She has been a blessing and a delight, and it has been an honor to have the privilege to watch her bloom.
That said, I think that Sana is an unusually courageous and intelligent dog, and we were fortunate enough to have the time and space to let her develop. I doubt if very many of these dogs will find the same fortuitous circumstances, but I know that they at least now have a chance. I cannot express how thankful I am to everyone involved in their rescue and to all those who have been working for years now to try and end this obscene sitation, and all of the other such situations that never end. At least, for now, these poor dogs are cared for and just might have the chance at a good life that Sana received. I'll be watching to see how I can help in the future.

Laura Whitney
Arlington, MA

[sharronhurlbut]

If anyone on this list wants to be considered for one of these dogs/puppies when they are released to rescue *if they are* the way to get in line is to go to www.basenjirescue.org and fill out an on line application to foster/adopt a basenji.
The process does take time, but its worth doing before these dogs are released to the public.

[rmholt]

I think the conditions are deplorable. The dogs, while seemingly well-fed, appear to be allowed to breed however they want to. That is bad enough.

However, keep in mind this is Florida. I just checked the weather in the area and the coldest it is supposed to get is 31F. Our dogs are very hardy because they basically live wild in Africa and are often not provided shelter and have to scrounge for food. They probably already have thick undercoats.

I believe the dogs will be rescued after public pressure is placed on local animal control. There are legal procedures that have to be followed. Regardless of how we would like to see these animals removed immediately, the law must be followed and evidence has to be gathered. Have faith...in both the dogs and in the system. It works slowly in Florida for animals, but it does work.
Contrary to some belief, African Basenjis are not wild. They live with people and are owned and used by people. If anything they are more domestic than Western basenjis - they (at least in West Africa) dont run away and they are good watchdogs. They dont fight amongst one another as much. They live where the people live - except they generally arent allowed in houses. However people in Benin dont spend a lot of time in the house either. They are cared for. In Benin they were shameless beggars for affection. Thanks for the opportunity to continue my mission to dispel this misapprehension. Reading of people who have been in other countries also do not support the "wild basenji". There were said to be some street dogs in a city in Cameroun however there were NO street dogs in Benin - the dog was either at home or with the owner.

[sharronhurlbut]

My understanding is that BRAT is in touch with the local officials to offer support of these dogs when/if they will be released to the public.
I am sure vetting and such will have to be done, as well as seeing these dogs through the legal system, before anyone who wants to help them can.
Sigh.

[rmholt]

And the dogs don't look like they have been fighting. Could well be that there isn't a lot of fighting, because there isn't a resource control issue. If the guy is feeding them plenty (which he says he is, and their condition indicates he is), fighting (probably) only becomes an issue when there are limited resources...for most of us with multiple dogs, the human attention/status is the most valued resource, so we have fighting occasionally.
I agree - they didnt look like they had been fighting and without resource issues the need to fight would not be there. I heard this guy has taken dogs to a shelter which were euthanized however. A fighter who did not learn the pack rules might have ended up there.

[MacPack]

Today a judge here in Hillsborough County ruled that the owner may never own a dog in this county again. I do not know what the next steps are, but the 33 dogs here at HCAC will not be returned to him. I have not heard that the St. Pete court has moved regarding the 12 at the SPCA yet.

[sharronhurlbut]

Oh, YEA!!!!!!!!!! I hope the dogs can be released soon.

[Shaye's Mom]

Contrary to some belief, African Basenjis are not wild. They live with people and are owned and used by people. If anything they are more domestic than Western basenjis - they (at least in West Africa) dont run away and they are good watchdogs. .

What most of us would not give to be able to say our Basenjis would not run away if off-leash. I know I do not dare try mine......:o

[tanza]

Contrary to some belief, African Basenjis are not wild. They live with people and are owned and used by people. If anything they are more domestic than Western basenjis - they (at least in West Africa) dont run away and they are good watchdogs. They dont fight amongst one another as much. They live where the people live - except they generally arent allowed in houses. However people in Benin dont spend a lot of time in the house either. They are cared for. In Benin they were shameless beggars for affection. Thanks for the opportunity to continue my mission to dispel this misapprehension. Reading of people who have been in other countries also do not support the "wild basenji". There were said to be some street dogs in a city in Cameroun however there were NO street dogs in Benin - the dog was either at home or with the owner.

However this opinion is based on the premise that these are Basenjis. Many believe these are just nice village mixed dogs.

And also village life where the Avongara's came from (and the Lukuru imports) certainly have a different life structure that the way we live in the US

[nobarkus]

What most of us would not give to be able to say our Basenjis would not run away if off-leash. I know I do not dare try mine......:o

My previous 3 Basenjis did not ever run away. I've had them get out for 1 reason or another and they wait in the front yard for me to get home. Now my newest one is not quite as good. But I will give him some time to mature and settle down.

[sharronhurlbut]

I think also the issue is that, while there are critters who can chomp a village dog of any breed, we have to worry more about cars hitting out dogs who are NOT car smart.
Many have lost a b to a car, and its just not worth it.
So, dogs getting out, IMO is a big deal, at least, in this country.

[MacPack]

My basenjis over the years have all gotten out, some out for hours (I was at work and had no idea) they all stayed close around, most came right back after sprinting up the street. But we had a quieter street, laid back, no big deal. When I had single dogs, we had 2 different ones that would be out front with us, off leash, and just lie in the driveway. So they don't "run away" but they do have intense curiosity and can't be trusted. As Sharron said, the issue is cars and danger to the dogs. If I lived way out in the country, 20 miles from a road, I might leave basenjis loose to come and go as they please, I give them a lot of credit for knowing where the kibble is at the end of the day. I trust them and their instincts, but they just don't know nuthin' 'bout no cars!

[Patty]

I live away from any busy road but I still can't let my Basenjis come and go because they will hunt and kill livestock. I suppose that's not a big problem in a town. However mine are very wary of traffic. Some got away in a town when I was transferring them into another car. They ran along the pavements well away from the busy road and didn't attempt to cross until they came to a quiet cul de sac.
Perhaps just because they are not used to traffic? Also one of the words I've taught them is "In" which they do when we meet traffic - our roads don't have pavements.

[Forever Amber]

Zoey isnt too bad but I cant trust her off leash. She has gotten out a few times though she doesnt head for the open road she cant resist chasing the nearest squirrel or just haveing a sprint where she runs accross the street and circles the neighbors houses a few times before she will decide to come to me. We do live near some traffic that twice a day is busy. So we have now enclosed our portch so now we have that second defense.

[sharronhurlbut]

This is from my BRAT friend....

Right now, there are 45 basenjis. Among them are four litters of young pups, probably no older than 3 weeks. I am tickled to death that Animal Services in Hillsborough will allow us to socialize these dogs. The shelter is a very good one, with separate spacious indoor/outdoor runs, heated floors, and cots in each space.

Thanks for your concern.

Debbi

[Basenjimamma]

Awesome news..Thank you so much for sharing Sharron..

[sharronhurlbut]

I will keep you posted when I hear anything.

[snorky998]

Contrary to some belief, African Basenjis are not wild. They live with people and are owned and used by people...... Reading of people who have been in other countries also do not support the "wild basenji". There were said to be some street dogs in a city in Cameroun however there were NO street dogs in Benin - the dog was either at home or with the owner. (partial quote above)

Sorry to disagree with you but this forum has an occasional poster from Benin that has stated that most of the Basenjis and Basenji crosses in Benin were in fact wild &/or street dogs.

[Basenjimamma]

I have a friend from Ghana, bordering to Benin, and they have several dogs that look like Otis (my basenji, but in red, it is more common he said) and they are wild, into everybodies trash, trying to get to the chickens people keep and all.
He did say however, even though they look just like a basenji, in body style, curled tail and always have white feet, they bark..he has heard howling in the distance, but never seen one of these dogs do it..

kind of interesting I think...

[MacPack]

Many, many years ago, early 80s, we were walking our several basenjis along the street near our home. A car stopped and a man in his 30's got out and was amazed to see so many (5) basenjis. He had spent the last 10 years living in Africa, can't remember where, and said that where he was, small packs of basenjis roamed, wild, but would occasionally just "move in" to a village. Some dogs would stay with the humans but after some time, most of the pack would move on. I imagine the "moving-in" was for scavenging, and some may have decided they liked scraps!

This is purely third-hand, told to me quite unsolicited, well over 25 years ago, Snorky 998's post triggered the memory!

[sharronhurlbut]

There are many village dogs who are a bit larger than b's and have an upright *alto not curled*tail...they are in many areas, and are not basenjis...
So, we might be talking of another type of dog here.

[Kananga]

I have a friend that was just over in Africa for a few months. It was funny because she saw Kananga the other week and mentioned she had seen a bunch of them where she was in Africa, yet they were obviously much more skinny compared to Kananga (who is ideal in weight, just not skin and bones).

Must be quite interesting to see them in the wild. They are stealthy enough as our pets, cannot imagine the mischief that they get into in the wild. :D

[sharronhurlbut]

Pam Hamilton has been visiting the Hillsborough Animal Control Services
(HCAS) as often as possible. These dogs cannot be released to rescue until
legal issues are resolved. It may take up to two months. We appreciate all
offers of help.

Many of you have sent messages to Pam volunteering to help with the
socialization of this group at HCAS. She is working with the staff on
procedures so volunteers can start visiting the dogs. Animal Services
recognizes the need for these dogs to have extra handling and socializing
that is beyond the capacity of the available staff.

Due to the unexpected volume of responses and her frequent trips to HCAS,
Pam has been unable to respond to all who want to help. She will get back
with you as soon as she can. Those who have not contacted Pam and wish to
volunteer should send her an email with the subject "Hillsborough Basenji
Socialization" to help her to organize responses. Her address is
flbasenji@earthlink.net .

Thank you for your concern and interest in these basenjis.

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

[thunderbird8588]

just bumping this thread for cahootz

[sharronhurlbut]

Here is the latest on the Florida basenjis from Pam in Florida!

SPCA: Confiscated basenjis held at the SPCA are still restricted to
certain personnel. They will keep a mom and pups in an office with an
approved individual, so they are getting some socialization.

HCAS: Confiscated basenjis have been moved to the investigation
kennel, so they are no longer open to the public. They are doing
reasonably well, but some have dropped a bit of weight. The barking
environment is tough on some basenjis. An investigation walker
(volunteer) has been getting them used to her presence. While I do
check them all, I have worked with several a bit more closely over the
past couple of weeks. I have been amazed at how quickly some are
turning into "domesticated" basenjis. We are ramping up the
socialization process now. Hopefully, we can get them to be more
content in their current quarters so that they will eat a bit more. A big
thanks to all who volunteered to help with the socialization project which
started today!

If you haven't received a response to your offer to help with
socialization, please resend your offer. If you would like to help but
have not yet replied to my request for more information, please do so
at your earliest convenience.


Thanks for your continued support,
Pam Hamilton
FL District Coordinator
Advisory Director
Basenji Rescue and Transport

[MacPack]

Pam has been working with them, and 6 of us went Saturday for volunteer orientation and worked with the dogs a bit. Though very shy, they are not aggressive and a few of them are really "coming out" and come up to the gate and take food from us. Others still cower as far away as they can get. The shelter has a very small fenced grassy "park" where the dogs in the Investigation building get taken by volunteer walkers for a few minutes out of their cages. That is where the basenji pups play and chase like "normal" basenjis. Pam is doing a great job! These dogs will take a lot of patience and TLC, but I think they have "pet potential".

[sharronhurlbut]

Oh, Yea!! thanks for the update.
I having been thinking of these dogs ever sense they have been written up.

[MacPack]

The court date is the 11th, fingers crossed the county assumes ownership of these guys. Animal Control knows these basenjis are way more than they can handle so are happy to work with BRAT. They are being very generous in allowing us to work with the dogs as they are "Investigation" dogs, usually only their long term volunteers and employees work with dogs in legal disputes. Again, it shows their sensitivity to the special needs of these feral basenjis.

[NerdyDogOwner]

I hope all the dogs from this place are spayed and neutered, it is a health concern due the the inbreeding...and to prevent their genes into the Basenji pool.

[Basenjimamma]

NerdyDogOwner, regardless of these dogs futures, they most certainly( I sure hope) will be spayed/neuterd before they leave these shelter locations, or once they are moved into foster homes( not adoptive homes)

[AJs Human]

Any time a shelter gets an animal it is almost inevitable it will be altered before placement...unless it is too young, in which case a contract is made that the animal will be altered.

Regarding their entry into the gene pool: I'm not sure exactly how "inbred" they are. They all look fairly healthy and don't exhibit signs of generational inbreeding. However, their heritage cannot be fully verified. Since this is the case, I don't think they are eligible for entry into the stud book.

Ms. Tanza or Ms. Khanis can answer this better than I can, but from what I'm seeing, only native stock imported from Africa or those animals whose parentage can be verified are allowed entry into the stud book.

[sharronhurlbut]

Animal shelter getting calls to adopt basenjis
February 2, 2010

< http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/feb/02/animal-services-seeking-custody-basenjis/

[MacPack]

That reporter called and interviewed my husband on the phone, within 30 minutes that article appeared on-line! Don had called the reporter the day the first article appeared and they talked a bit then. Guess he kept our phone number. He got a bit of what Don told him right, such is the media! Don kept telling him to call Pam for more information. As far as I know, none are actually out in foster care. The moms and tiny pups are in isolation, but still there at Animal Control.

[sharronhurlbut]

Thank you for the correction.

[MacPack]

I didn't mean any correction, people probably have been calling to adopt! We let Pam do all the direct communication with the shelter. The article had originally said that some of the basenjis were already placed in foster care, not that I know of.

[agilebasenji]

MacPack-
I thought the article was nice, but, uhm, I gotta say, Zest will bring me my slippers if she knows where they are and if there's is a cookie involved. So, well, there's that.

[MacPack]

Nicky might bring my shoes, but there will be a chunk gone when she gets here! Don read it and said, well, the guy quoted a little of what he said correctly.
We're going back Saturday morning, wish I was retired and could spend every morning out there!

[MacPack]

Sorry, guess I was not supposed to have written anything about the shelter dogs, no one ever told any of us not to share any info. Sorry. The very last thing anyone would want is to compromise this case in any way.

[sharronhurlbut]

MacPack, I appreciate the inforamtion, the correct informtion. Who said you shouldn't share it with us?

[AJs Human]

Ms. Sharron, when there is a criminal investigation in progress, the less information released to the public, the better. It's amazing how a tiny bit of information can compromise an entire investigation.

A fine example of this was when the US was tracking Osama Bin Laden and information was released to the press that cel phone usage was being tracked. Until that point, Intelligence had a pretty good idea where he was. After this tidbit was printed and spouted all over the nightly news, Bin Laden changed his communication tactic and went further underground. We haven't found him yet.

I'm not bringing this up to open a can of worms or start a political discussion. I am only illustrating how releasing the smallest detail can hinder law enforcement and military operations.

I, too, appreciate the update, but can understand why the authorities want to keep any information close to the vest.

[Basenjimamma]

MacPack, I like the updates as well..

[sharronhurlbut]

Ms AJ, I understand what your saying. I am seeing that the BRAT person working with the shelter is posting information to several basenjis lists.
She even asked for folk who wanted to help these b's be socialized, step forward.
I will post that latest post next. I think the issue is what was wrongly written in the paper. THAT is the inforamation that is the issue. At least, that is my understanding.
Pat wrote in her latest update..........
Subject: BRAT BUSINESS: February 4 Update on Florida basenjis

Here is the latest update on the confiscated basenjis in Florida from Pam
Hamilton:

Greetings,

First, I would like to thank everyone for their support. I have had
lots of positive feedback and offers of help. I wish I had time to
thank everyone individually. I will contact offers of help as the need
arises and as the timing fits. I will let everyone know when we reach
a point that help needs change. Currently, we are working on
socializing. We will hopefully soon need special foster homes,
transportation, and approved adoptive homes, pending, of course, the outcome
of custody hearings.

Here is the latest update regarding the confiscated basenjis in
Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties:

SPCA: No news from officials at this time.

HCAS: HCAS officials have been very satisfied with BRAT's assistance
thus far. They would like to continue with me as their one point of
contact for all communication. They are pleased with the progress
they've seen in the dogs. This is the first time that they have allowed a
rescue group to assist in this fashion. We would like to make
sure that it is a success that will encourage use of breed rescues in
the future at this facility. They have been extremely busy with a very
full facility and a large number of confiscation investigations and
relinquishing cases, as well as making sure that the dogs were
sufficiently vetted to minimize spreading parasites, so it has taken a
bit of time to get the process in motion. Please respect the rules and
procedures that have been established to minimize the work for
everyone involved.

HCAS officials and I had another meeting yesterday. Procedures will
continue to be tweaked as time progresses. Volunteers who have
already been to our first orientation will need a mini-reorientation.
Any other orientation sessions will include this material brought up
in our latest meeting. I have a collection of material that I will be
emailing to volunteers. I will also work on setting up schedules. We can
plan on meeting on Saturday, February 6. We should soon be able to add
Sundays to the schedule since the Shelter is making changes to maximize the
use of volunteers. As part of the tweaking process, it has been determined
that I should be there whenever BRAT-organized volunteers are there,
at least until the project is well underway. Please be very sensitive
to the fact that these dogs are part of a custody investigation. No
pictures of or communications about the dogs are to be disseminated to
anyone outside of the volunteer group unless it has been specifically
approved by me. I check in with the investigation officer to make sure
that anything that may be shared will not be damaging to their case.
Please do not jeopardize the use of our rescue's assistance by
violating this.

The dogs are doing remarkably well given the stressful environment
(barking poodles are hard to ignore). Reduction of parasite loads is
starting to show as a healthier distribution of their weight. A couple
have taken to the leash quickly. They know me quite well, whine when I
leave and greet me with a wag when I return. Socialization has begun
for many in their pens. The facility has a small park that is just for
the use of the investigation dogs. We have begun to get some out to
the park, in pairs or groups when appropriate. It is amazing how
quickly they become "normal" once they are out in the park - and once
they realize that the human has some good qualities. While most are
man-shy, many will come up to the gate to greet volunteers who visit
regularly with treats - bribes work! The ones that were most at risk due
to health concerns are currently in foster care and are flourishing.
The next step in determining their future is a custody hearing
February 11, which will be followed by a 30 day hold for appeals,
assuming custody is awarded to HCAS. Much of this was covered in an
online, to-be-printed news article:
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/feb/02/animal-services-seeking-custody-basenjis/
.


If you would like to help with socialization and haven't yet been
contacted, please respond to me at flbasenji@earthlink.net with the
subject of "HCAS basenji socialization". I have been getting hundreds
of emails - the subject will help me to find you quickly. I must use a
form response when I can, given the number of emails I am receiving.
If you have additional questions, please send me a separate email with
the subject generally indicating what you need, if possible (ie,
transport, fostering, adopting, etc.). Other routine BRAT activities
in FL have greatly increased as the confiscation cases have been
unfolding, so anything that you can do to help keep communication
simple, efficient and quick is greatly appreciated.

Thanks again for all of your support,

Pam


________________________
Pam Hamilton
FL District Coordinator
Advisory Director
Basenji Rescue and Transport


Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

[AJs Human]

Thank you for the update, Ms. Sharron.

[sharronhurlbut]

Oh, my unmet friend..your very welcome. I think the whole basenji community is very interested in how this works out for these dogs.
Sigh. I wish they could make sure this fellow doesn't get any more dogs of ANY breed.
Sigh.

[LizNewton]

From Pam Hamilton and Debbi Johnson:

Greetings from not-so-sunny-or-warm Florida!

As many of you are probably aware, the hearing was held Thursday, Feb. 11, to determine the custody of the basenjis confiscated by HCAS (Hillsborough County Animal Services). The owner did not show up for the custody hearing. The judge heard a brief review of the case, promptly awarded custody to HCAS, waived the 30 day appeal period and enjoined Mr. Holland from owning any animals in Hillsborough County. It will take a bit of time to finalize paperwork. It is currently the intention of HCAS to have BRAT take the basenjis and rehome them. More details on that process will follow soon. It will take time, money and manpower to get this unique batch of basenjis onto their new lives in real homes. Donations will be gratefully appreciated for this significant endeavor.

Debbi has spent the week running around with Pam, taking care of basenjis young and old. Mr. Holland's basenjis have gone without vetting for so long that getting all of his basenjis parasite free and healthy has taken some time. Debbi's now had the chance to experience a bit of the nursemaid duties.

I will provide a description of the characteristics and personalities that this line has. Adopters and fosters must be able to demonstrate that they will be able to meet the needs of these intense and high-level basenjis. They have neat personalities, but they are a bit like "Jolt" - a high-caffeine, high-sugar soda - lots of kick and energy.

It has been a pleasure to work so closely with a shelter to help basenjis. I hope that more shelters will work with us in this fashion in the future.

We have not yet had any news from the SPCA in Pinellas County.

Thank you all for your continued support.

Pam & Debbi

[thunderbird8588]

Great news!

[MacPack]

Guess it's OK to talk about them now! We had 4 of the older pups, probably 5-6 months old, out together playing in a small dog run at the shelter today. What a difference, they ran, tussled, were full of joy. We sat beside the cages of some of the more fearful adults and just talked to them and tossed hot dog bits. Some of the males will take bites from hands, but they are the braver, more curious ones. Hopefully the pups will get adopted quickly so Pam and her volunteers can work more with the shy adults, they will be more of a challenge. It was way cool to see those 4 pups playing!

[thunderbird8588]

This is great news, thanks for the update.

[sharronhurlbut]

in case you all didn't see this post.
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Basenji Club of America, Inc" <treasurer@basenji.org>
To: michaelswan@comcast.net
Sent: Sunday, February 14, 2010 9:09:20 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: Florida Basenji Rescue
FLORIDA BASENJI RESCUE CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Dear Fellow BCOA Member(s):

Per my previous note sent to all members, you heard the recent story in which dozens of Basenjis were placed in S.P.C.A. and H.C.A.S. custody in two different counties in Florida. These dogs are mostly younger dogs, and among them were a few pregnant bitches that have either whelped or will be whelping their litters very soon.

While we do not yet have many details about the smaller number of dogs at S.P.C.A., the larger number of Basenjis at H.C.A.S. will be placed in the capable hands of Basenji Rescue and Transport, Inc. (BRAT) soon. Because BRAT works with Basenji rescue on a daily basis, they already have many Basenjis in foster care and, while they are eager to help these Basenjis in need, their resources are going to be stretched thin with such a large influx of new special needs dogs being placed in their care.

I have been communicating regularly with a BRAT representative regarding these Florida rescue Basenjis and BRAT would appreciate additional volunteers who can provide foster homes as well as volunteers who can help transport dogs from the Tampa, Florida area to their new foster homes.

While a socialization project is in place at H.C.A.S. and these dogs seem to be responding well, they still need continued socialization and training. I am told they are high-energy dogs that seem to be potty trained. Of course the stress of placing a dog in a new environment can always result in set backs, but from the reports I hear, I am encouraged by the progress being made thus far since these Basenjis are not accustomed to the sensory overload endured at a shelter environment with barking dogs and foreign odors.

At this point, I cannot provide individual information regarding the personalities and unique needs of these Basenjis, but understand the urgency to notify members of BRAT�s need for additional volunteers so a plan can be in place at the time of the change of custody.

As you may know, BCOA is not a �hand�s-on� rescue organization, and does not actively participate in rescue. BCOA does, however, understand that every Basenji deserves a loving home and is in the midst of donating funds to help with the transition from rescue Basenji to beloved, well-adjusted pets. If you are interested in independently volunteering to help transport or foster one of these Basenjis in Florida, please contact me so we don�t overwhelm BRAT�s resources further. My e-mail address is ankhu@kmwb.net . I will put you in contact with the proper BRAT representative.

As always, please remember that the Basenji Club of America, Inc. is not a �hand�s on� rescue organization and stepping forward to help one of these Basenjis in need is done so on your own and not on as a representative of the Club.

Thank you for anything you can do to help these Basenjis in need,
Carrie Jones
BCOA Rescue Liaison ankhu@kmwb.net

Note: Please do not reply to this email sender. Respond to: ankhu@kmwb.net

[sharronhurlbut]

Also, if you want to help these dogs, you will need to become a BRAT volunteer by completing the short form at: http://www.basenjirescue.org/Volunteer.htm

[sharronhurlbut]

Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 12:20 PM
To: BasenjiBreederRoundtable@yahoogroups.com; BRAT-L; B-List
Subject: [BBR] Update on Florida basenjis


It is so heartwarming to see the Basenji community pull together for these
Basenjis. It may be towards the end of the week before I am able to start
replying to the wonderful offers of help. We anticipated having 30 days
after the court hearing on February 11 before the dogs could be released to
Basenji Rescue and Transport (BRAT). The Appeals period was waived at the
hearing, and ownership of the dogs is being transferred to BRAT. The
Hillsborough County Animal Services (HCAS) will vet these dogs this week and
possibly into the next week. So we need time to get our ducks in a row.

I spent the last week with in Florida working with the dogs and attending
the court hearing. Pam Hamilton, our Florida District Coordinator, is
physically working with the dogs along with the help of local volunteers who
have been helping to socialize them. I am fielding the offers of help.

The Basenji Club of America (BCOA) has generously offered to provide crates.
Carrie Jones is the liaison person for BCOA. I think it is wonderful that
the Club and Rescue are cooperating to help the Basenjis. As you may know,
BCOA is not a "hands-on" rescue organization, and does not actively
participate in rescue. BCOA does, however, understand that every Basenji
deserves a loving home and is in the midst of donating funds to help with
the transition from rescue Basenji to beloved, well-adjusted pets. This
transition is our goal. We are appreciate the help of BCOA.

We have been receiving notes asking about donations. BRAT has already
incurred significant vet expenses as we have had the mothers, mothers-to-be,
and their pups in our possession for a while. The pups range from 2 days
old to 5 or 6 weeks. We still have one mother who has not whelped. The
mother who whelped on Saturday spent several days at the Emergency Hospital.
We almost lost her.

I have asked our webmaster to set up a link on our website so that donations
may be made by PayPal, credit card through PayPal or by check. I hope to
have that link up soon. Our web site is www.basenjirescue.org . Until we
get the PayPal link set up, donations may be made by mail using a personal
check or money order. Donations are tax-deductible. Our donation form
includes the mailing address for BRAT and be found at
http://www.basenjirescue.org/DonationForm.htm .

Thanks for all your thoughts and concerns for these basenjis.

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

[Basenjimamma]

Wonderful and exciting news..I am so glad things are going in the right direction for these pups..
I will send some money via paypal, any way I can help..I wish I was in Florida so I could help first hand, but I figure money is tight and any help at all is good...
Keep us posted Sharron..

[sharronhurlbut]

Funds are so helpful..foster homes are badly needed as well.
I have heard of other things, not final yet, that might work for getting some dogs/puppies into other states, but again, just talk now.
More as I can post it.
So, maybe YOU can be a foster home for one of these dogs, puppies, or female b's healing from spaying. If you think you might want to be considered, please do go to the
BRAT site and fill out the forms. No one will force a dog on anyone, but we need to have places for these b's to go!

[sharronhurlbut]

Nice letter......re the BRAT b's and BRAT's Pam Hamilton.
They were feral when captured. They were brought to the kennel after freezing, and starving in a five acre pasture. They never had been held or touched or treated with kindness. They were terrified of humans. At Animal Services, they received veterinary medical care, food, water, shelter and warmth. They are thriving. I am proud to say the basenji population has increased from 33 to 40. One of the pregnant females gave birth to 7 puppies and there are 1 or 2 more litters anticipated in the near future. Mom and puppies are doing fine.
The basenjis could not have been saved without the efforts of Pam Hamilton. Pam Hamilton has been instrumental in working with the dogs and socializing them. She has also worked with staff and volunteers and educated everyone on how to work with the basenjis.

She is a dedicated asset to your organization. Thank you for all your efforts for these wonderful dogs. Jan
Janet A. McDonald

Senior Assistant County Attorney
Hillsborough County Attorney's Office
Health & Human Services Division

[sharronhurlbut]

Greetings!

Another week has flown by. Here is a summary/review of what has happened and
what we expect to happen in the near future:

Feb. 11 - Custody of the Wimauma basenjis was awarded to HCAS. The 30 day
appeal period was waived by the judge. The scramble begins as we make
arrangements to move dogs in a couple of weeks versus a bit more than a
month. Terry and Jackie from out of town visited "the nursery" (our house,
which is also a hospice...) to take pictures for posting.

Feb. 13 - Kenyatta, the heartworm positive, anemic, emaciated, hypoglycemic,
very sweet and cooperative, pregnant female went into labor early in the
morning. By noon, she had her last viable pup. She finally delivered the
last one, a stillborn, around 8 PM, after multiple doses of Oxytocin.
Surgical removal was not an option without serious risks because her
condition is so poor. Her body score out of 9 is just 2 (determined prior to
delivery - without pups, she, of course, appears to be even thinner, perhaps
just a 1). Tube feeding of her pups every two hours begins (the only "milk"
Kenyatta has is a tiny amount of mastitis - and her body condition certainly
cannot support nursing). Reasonable efforts are ongoing to help Kenyatta
make a recovery. She has been to our regular vet, the emergency/critical
care vet (through delivery), and HCAS (they are able to provide transfusions
and injections that would have continued to accrue significant expenses at
the ER/critical care vet's). Kenyatta and I, along with Debbi or my folks,
have spent a lot of time together in the vehicle, running from one place to
the next.

Week of Feb. 15 - All basenjis currently located at HCAS are
spayed/neutered/vaccinated. They are ready to leave HCAS as soon as we have
all arrangements in place. Five of the older pups who are still at HCAS that
have been doing quite well with socialization activities will first go into
short-term foster homes. Potential applicants are invited to submit
applications through BRAT to adopt them. There are approximately 10 others
that will move to Pam's Basenji Town for a chill-out/evaluation period prior
to being moved to longer-term foster homes. The nine pups in our nursery
visited HCAS for boosters, more deworming and weighing - they are getting
chunky! It is determined that they are about 8 weeks old and big enough to
be spayed and neutered. These procedures will be done soon. They will be
ready to move on to their new adoptive homes before long.

Arrangements have been made with HCAS regarding vetting of the basenjis who
are at Pam's nursery and no longer at the shelter. HCAS will
spay/neuter/vaccinate all basenjis, including those still "in the oven" (one
more mom-to-be has looked ready to pop any second for days...), so all pups
will stay in the area until they are at least 8 weeks old.

This "in-house vetting" is a huge help to BRAT. Our expenses for vetting
these b-kids is already high. The stress from shelter and/or bad body
condition took a couple over the Rainbow Bridge. We were able to snatch the
rest back from the brink. We haven't even begun to consider other vetting
expenses the older basenjis will need. Amazingly, there is only one who
tests heartworm positive at this time. I have begun to check what other
needs they may have; for example, one of the older moms has
broken/tartar-covered teeth that may need some attention. Because of the
condition of the mom during pregnancy, the pups currently being
tube/bottle-fed every two hours
have a very uncertain future. They may need additional vetting. Donations
for these basenjis is greatly appreciated. A special link will be added to
our website soon.

Many people and groups have offered help throughout the past month. If you
have not received a response, please accept our apologies. We have been a
little busy... Given the abbreviated time that we have to get the basenjis
out of HCAS, we are asking your help to reorganize more quickly. If you
would like to help in some way, could you please send an email again,
complying with the following:

Please label the subject line with one of the following:

a. FOSTER - <your name> <your location>
b. TRANSPORT - <your name> <your location>
c. ADOPT - <your name> <your location>
d. OTHER - <your name> <your location>

If you are able to help in multiple ways, please send multiple emails.

If you are able to help with fostering or transporting , we ask that you
become a BRAT member. Please note on the "Join BRAT" form you are joining
to help with the Wimauma basenjis. If you wish, you can ask to drop your
membership later. There is no membership fee to join BRAT.
http://www.basenjirescue.org/Volunteer.htm .

If you are interested in adopting one of the Wimauma basenjis, please submit
an adoption application through BRAT's website.
http://www.basenjirescue.org/ApplDB/AdoptForm.htm .
Please note on your adoption application you are interested in the Wimauma
basenjis.

These basenjis are different from our "normal" rescue basenjis and are
different from the puppy mill basenjis BRAT volunteers have met in the past.
I have been saying this for a month to Debbi (though, to be completely
honest, I've made my statements based on what I've heard about puppy mill
basenjis - I've never had basenji that was an abused puppy mill breeder b).
She has now had the opportunity to meet the basenjis down here - and agrees!
(She confessed that she was dissin' my thoughts...). These basenjis
generally need more exercise and are bigger, stronger, more energetic, more
sensitive to body language, and more capable of "taking care of themselves"
than most basenjis. It is neat to have the opportunity to see what their
behavior is like having come from a natural, wild pack. One of the greatest
benefits is that the adults seem to be almost house-broken from the first
moment in
a house, possibly because soiling the area near the den would attract
predators. Though there may be exceptions, their desire to escape should be
expected to be very high. They do like the creature comforts of a home,
though, so they should accept being in a home if great care is taken to make
sure that the introduction is nothing but pleasant.

We have had basenjis from this line in the past, some as pups, some as
adults. We have a fair amount of experience regarding what works for these
basenjis and what doesn't work for them. Adults that have come into rescue
have often been relinquished from individual owners because of behavioral
problems. We have been able to rehabilitate them and provide their adoptive
families with handling techniques to prevent the behaviors from resurfacing.
Please realize that it is necessary
to follow the advice and procedures that are recommended regarding these
basenjis. These are really basenjis of a different color.

Thank you again for your support!

Pam Hamilton
FL District Coordinator
Advisory Director
Basenji Rescue and Transport

and

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

[Nemo]

I saw some photos of the puppies on FaceBook. They're really cute and the chocolate and liver colorations are interesting. I hope they find good homes. At least the really young puppies never had to live in such poor conditions, or at least for very long.

[thunderbird8588]

Thank you for the update, it's good to hear.

[MacPack]

Three of us had the 5 pups (who are aprox. 5 months old) all together playing in a dog run for over 2 hours today. They are so different in that environment, in the shelter with all the barking and all isolated, they are frightened and shy. Playing together, they run, chase balls, wrestle, steal hot dogs, are just happy, wild, free basenjis pups. They came up to us, took treats from our hands, did not avoid us and even interacted with us. They still have to be caught and try and avoid us then, but are not "freaked" by it so much any more.

They are very sensitive to body language, they watch and know which one we are after! They will be a handful for the lucky people who get them, but they are very smart, fun-loving and friendly, once they get over their fears. They really are "wild animals" who have had no human-type rules imposed on them, but I think they will learn to love 'creature comforts' really fast.

So if you are ready for a fun foster, or adoption, step up and fill out that BRAT application! These 5 are going to be rewarding to work with,and it will be a very unique experience. The younger puppies have been handled and humanized since capture, when they were only 2 or 3 weeks old. The older dogs will be more of a challenge I imagine, but these 5 youngsters are going to be FUN !

[sharronhurlbut]

Can you post some photos for us?

[MacPack]

We got the first photos today, we were not permitted till after the hearing. My ability to post photos has been very limited, I don't think I can just "e-mail" a photo from i-photo, will have to get DH to tweak some and file them so I can do it that way. I am limited by my ignorance of technology.

[MacPack]

Hopefully this will work, it is all 5 pups playing with an empty zipper-lock bag.

I am not good at figuring out this tech stuff!

[sharronhurlbut]

Oh, this came through GREAT...more photos please...
They look so happy!
Let us know what we can do to help you and these dogs.
Most of us on this list really do want to keep up on their rehomings.

[Basenjimamma]

They look so cute and happy too..yes, more pictures please..

[Shaye's Mom]

Those puppies are seriously adorable! Here's hoping they can find homes soon.

[thunderbird8588]

Lovely pic of happy Pups

[sharronhurlbut]

Check out these photos on facebook of the fl b's.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=149203&id=592602437&ref=nf

[MacPack]

Those are great! They must be the pups that were only a couple of weeks old when they were caught. Lucky little pups, they have been handled and petted ever since.

[sharronhurlbut]

Anne sent this first hand account.


We have been working with the 5 month old pups at the shelter every
Saturday. We had them in a dog run for over 2 hours last Saturday and
they played like normal little basenji pups, full of fun and joy and
obviously happy. However......they are still quite fearful of humans
and have strong prey drives. One saw a cardinal and her interest was
more than casual, it was DINNER ! They still don't walk on leashes
and will dig at a fence in a heartbeat. When it's time to round
them up, they freeze and the frightened look returns to their faces.
Then we sit by them and gently pick them up and pet and croon till
they stop shaking. And this is after many hours with them, and being
with them at play, them getting comfortable that they actually came up
to us, taking treats, sniffing feet, then ignoring us and playing near
us, not staying at whatever end of the run we weren't. These are VERY
smart pups, they know when we are starting to round them up, they are
watching us all the time and really read body language well.

I think they will be great pets, but a couple of them will be a real
handful! The dominant female went right up to the one old chair out
there and ripped a bit of vinyl and went after the foam rubber. Even
feral basenjis love to destroy furniture, evidently! She is quite a
beauty, too, and a Queen Bee even at this young age.

The youngest group of pups has basically been raised by Pam, these 5
kids are older but are fairly trusting already. People mean good
things, hot dog bits and pets, and I think these won't be hard to
"civilize", but they are a whole different mindset than even an un-
socialized dog. Humans are aliens from space to these guys, bus so
far they think we are fairly benign aliens. There is one that is a
rich mahogany color with light gold, almost green, eyes, she is
stunning! They are so normal in one sense, and so totally NOT
"normal" in other ways.

They need to go to foster homes within the next week or so, so jump
right in, and see what a real basenji "in the wild" is like!

Anne

[sharronhurlbut]

Post from Debbi
Greetings from Florida!

We are in the midst of making plans to spring the seized Wimauma basenjis
from the Hillsborrough County Amimal Services shelter. Thanks to all for
your wonderful offers of help! We will be in touch with you soon.

Kenyatta, the mother of our bottle-fed litter, has spent the weekend with
the vet, is showing improvement, but is still in a very guarded condition.
Her pups are gaining weight, and most are beginning to suckle a bottle,
progressing from being mostly tube-fed. Keondra, our last mom-to-be, looks
ready to whelp any day now. She is even following nicely on leash and seems
to be enjoying her last days without pups. Initially very distrustful of
humans, Koca is begining to warm up to Pam. Her two week old pups are
becoming rolly polly. Attached is a photo of one of our young puppies.

There are now over 50 basenjis in the pack. Transitioning these dogs from
their beginnings in a five acre field with little human contact to becoming
healthy, well adjusted pets with loving families is our goal. We have been
receiving notes asking about donations. Our webmaster has set up a link so
that donations may be made by PayPal, credit card through PayPal or by
check. We are determined by the Internal Revenue Service to be tax exempt
pursuant to IRS Code Section 501(c)(3). Donations are tax-deductible to the
extent provided by law. We would appreciate any contributions made to help
these basenjis find their way into forever homes.

http://basenjirescue.org/donations/FLBasenjisDonation.asp

Thanks for all your thoughts and concerns for these basenjis.

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

and

Pam Hamilton
FL District Coordinator
Advisory Director
Basenji Rescue and Transport
flbasenji@earthlink.net

[Kipawa]

I can't even make myself look at the links. :( I will just pray that some people in the area help out those little angels.

[sharronhurlbut]

Oh, you should look..she how great these dogs will be once they learn humans are good.
Watch a dog find love with the new families is a wonderful thing to see.
*they are not starved* they are just not loved....

[sharronhurlbut]

Subject: BRAT-CHAT: adopting a feral Basenji


Because of our experience with our Sana, I've been asked by a
few people to try and describe what it has been like to adopt a "feral"
Basenji. As many of you know, Sana was taken from the same man in
Florida who just lost custody of all his dogs. In the winter of 05/06,
Sana and one of her pups were turned over to BRAT. We think that she was
four at that time, and that the surviving pup was from her third litter.
Keiki, the pup, came to NH, and Sana was fostered by Dana Cole until we
adopted her in May of 2006. It was the start of one of the greatest
adventures of my life. I can honestly say that there were times that I
agonized over whether or not we were doing right by her, but I don't
think there were more than a very few minutes that I felt even a shred
of regret that we had added her to our family. I just never dreamed how
much work would be involved, or how long it would take to see her
progress.
Adopting a new dog is always a challenge, especially with dogs
as unique as our Basenjis. Adopting an extremely fearful dog was a
different challenge from every dog I've ever met. Dana Cole was
wonderfully, almost brutally honest about Sana's behaviour, and stressed
that progress with her would proceed in the tiniest of baby-steps. I was
confident about two things. The first was that Bill and I could offer
this wild little creature a safe, fairly quiet and routine home, and the
second was that we were committed to helping her discover that life
really was good. Our goal for her was that she become happy - simply
that - and that she be able to relax and enjoy life. Anything else would
be a bonus - we already had a dog who loved us, and Sana's life now
would be all about Sana. God knows she had already paid her dues, and
she deserved peace.

NOTE: because we were dealing with one feral dog in our own
home, we had the luxury of allowing her to set her own schedule and
develop at her own pace with as little pressure from us as possible. And
it IS a luxury - one that most foster homes may not be able to offer.
There are different methods that can be used, especially for dogs in
transition between their rescue and their forever homes that include a
shortened timetable and more intensive conditioning. In no way do I mean
to imply that there are not multiple roads to success. Everything else I
say is nothing more than generalities about ADULT feral dogs learned
directly from Sana and from all of the research I still do on the topic.
I am not an expert, except in terms of our one special dog. Each and
every dog will come with its own issues and own schedule of development!

Generalities:
A feral dog is hyper-sensitive to everything. Every tiny
movement, every change in tone of voice, every sound from another room,
EVERYTHING is a potential danger. With time, this eases, but I doubt
that it will ever go away because it is exactly what was needed for
sheer survival. It doesn't take long at all to learn that humans produce
food and supply warm, comfy beds. It does take a very long time for an
adult dog to learn broader concepts - that human touch is not only
non-harmful but can actually bring pleasure, that "home" is a real place
that will remain constant, that gentleness exists and will not go away
and (most importantly) that the good things will happen every day.
By "it will take time", I do not mean that after the customary
6-8 weeks of adjustment time, a feral/un-socialized dog necessarily will
be comfortable in their new home. The tiniest of baby steps are things
to be celebrated - eye contact, choosing to approach even when there's
no food, learning any basic obedience are huge signs of progress that
MIGHT very well take months - or even years - not days or weeks. Feral
animals truly are the closest things to visitors from another planet
that most of us will meet. Again, they lived in a totally different
world where every action and sound had to be instantly noted and
analyzed, because danger could return at any moment. After about a year
with us, we carefully began to refer to Sana as "extra-vigilant" rather
than "extremely fearful" not only because it was a more positive
description but because we were finally realizing that this was
something that would remain part of her character forever. This
characteristic also requires extra care in terms of protection. A feral
dog will react INSTANTLY to a perceived threat - usually by bolting. It
might be extremely difficult to retrieve a frightened, loose dog because
every one of their instincts will be telling them to run and hide, and
it's quite possible that no stranger without a net would be able to
catch them. We are fortunate that Sana, from the first day we had her,
is highly motivated to stay safely in the comforts of our home, and to
do her best to return there as soon as possible whenever stressed. It is
actually more likely that feral dogs will incline to get AWAY from
whatever frightened them, and to run, dig or climb if necessary. Bolting
out a door or ripping a leash out of a hand may be a constant threat, so
owners will need to be as "extra-vigilant" as their dogs to keep them
safe - always and forever.
Becoming adjusted to a human household will come in time, with
gentle routine being one of the best tools. Love, however, is an art
best learned when young, and it is not a natural concept for a feral
animal. Food can be a major motivation in learning the extra perks of
living with people - Sana's first true breakthrough came by way of
"pizza bones" - and here again time will be involved. These dogs CAN and
WILL learn to love, but they're starting very late in terms of
development, and it can feel like forever. After three and a half years,
Sana will now (almost always) come to me when she feels threatened, or
her leash is tangled around her legs, or she's hurt, etc. She always
sleeps pressed against me, fully expects to share any meal I eat, and in
the last few weeks has finally begun to come to me to ask for petting.
I know that she loves me, as well as relies on me and trusts me, and it
fills my heart in ways I can't even begin to describe.
Time - it all comes down to time and patience, and the desire to
do it both FOR and WITH the dog. These dogs will be a challenge to even
the most experienced of Basenji-folk, and many households will not be a
good match for them. We all want to help in this extraordinary rescue
situation, but unusual care will need to be taken in matching these
survivors with their forever homes. I can't wait to see how they'll all
be in five years or so!
I would be happy to discuss the details of our experience with
anyone who might be interested. I can be reached at: bcomvp@yahoo.com
or laura_whitney@harvard.edu or 781-643-5497.

Laura Whitney
Arlington, MA


P.S. Other than our usual Basenji resources, there are two sources of
help I would recommend VERY highly:

1) There is a Yahoo-group called "Shy-K9s" that got me through
my most discouraged moments. It is a wonderful group, even if you only
read the archives. Only positive methods are discussed, the support is
tremendous, and reading about professionals who are willing to spend
YEARS helping dogs that they still cannot touch is humbling beyond
words. These people GET IT, and I cannot recommend them highly enough.
2) Many people are not comfortable with the concept of using an
animal-communicator (I wasn't, at first) but I found that working with a
communicator could give us a huge boost. It was very beneficial in
interpreting Sana's reactions to situations and helping her to know what
changes and events (like travel) might be coming. I have worked with two
(whose names I would happily pass on to anyone interested!), and both
have been able to track physical and emotional changes at which I could
only guess. One was amazingly helpful when Sana once got lost. Anyone
interested should definitely get recommendations from someone they
trust, because there are frauds out there, but there also are people
with astonishing gifts that can be of tremendous assistance. Again, I'd
be happy to recommend the two with whom we've worked to anyone
interested.


Laura Whitney
Arlington, MA
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

[MacPack]

Here is the mahogany colored female, Kizzie, with green-gold eyes...stunning!

[MacPack]

This is Afrika, the boy, and he is all boy!

[MacPack]

I think anyone interested in these dogs needs to read Laura's message (above) and take it to heart. These dogs, especially the adults, are not impossible, but they are not going to be easy. They will be rewarding and interesting though!

[sonnyboy]

Here is the mahogany colored female, Kizzie, with green-gold eyes...stunning!

She is beautiful....

[sharronhurlbut]

Thank everyone for setting the foster homes up for success. If you know it's going to take time, you don't expect anything more than what the dogs can give.

[nkjvcjs]

Subject: BRAT-CHAT: adopting a feral Basenji


1) There is a Yahoo-group called "Shy-K9s" that got me through
my most discouraged moments. It is a wonderful group, even if you only
read the archives. Only positive methods are discussed, the support is
tremendous, and reading about professionals who are willing to spend
YEARS helping dogs that they still cannot touch is humbling beyond
words. These people GET IT, and I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Laura Whitney
Arlington, MA
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


I have been a member of Shy-k9s for many years now. I do not post any more, but they were indispensable when I first got my Katie.
There is a good discussion going on there right now about dogs pulled from a similar, but worse situation as the Florida B's. The suggestions given would be very good for people working with, or hoping to work with these dogs to read.

-Nicole

[Basenjimamma]

They are both so cute, Kizzie is stunning.

[sharronhurlbut]

A basenji person shared these photos with us, and I want to share them with you.
Pam wrote..
I was in FL last week and photographed the Basenji as best I could in my two day stay! I met a Basenji in foster care at Pam's house. Pam said the Basenji was a year old and had came from Holland's house as a pup. The dog had a very high play/toy drive! He was doing the tug game and did not want to stop. The boy was Large, I measure him, 19 ? inches tall. Want a crazy basenji. I saw several of the older dogs in the kennel with high play/toy drives too. Would be nice to select an even tempered puppy and work with them from this group of basenji.

I started a web page about the Basenji, still in the works. Will update soon
http://www.ottaray.com/PICDog/wimauma/index.html

Terry Cox Fiedler

[sharronhurlbut]

Sent: Wednesday, March 03, 2010 7:02 PM
To: BasenjiBreederRoundtable@yahoogroups.com; BNTPP Basenji Hunting; Basenji List
Subject: [BNTPP] Wimauma Basenji in Shelter Pics

WARNING! Some of these pictures are disturbing.

Here is a web page with Pictures of Wimauma Basenji at the Shelter.

http://www.ottaray.com/PICDog/wimauma/Doginshelter/index.html

Terry Cox Fiedler
http://www.ottaray.com

[Kipawa]

Although so tough to look at (I have to convince myself to look), thank you Sharron for sharing these stories with us. It is only through awareness and education that we have a hope of lessening these sad stories.

[Basenjimamma]

Thank you for sharing Sharron.
Although very sad to see, I am glad they are being taken care of, even if for the first time in their lives.

[Ginny2244]

I got to chat with Judge Nick Wed. about the Wimama basenji pack. . He
was the presiding judge at the Feb 11th hearing in Tampa, who granted
custody to Hillsborough County Animal Shelter. Of course I thanked him
for saving the basenjis, saying how wonderful that they would be turned over
to BRAT. He spoke highly of BRAT, impressed that BRAT members were
in attendance from not only Tampa but from around the country. Awesome !

Ginny Padawer
Callie and Jack
Tampa, FL

[MacPack]

Hi Ginny, Welcome to Forum!

[sharronhurlbut]

Welcome, we look forward to your input.

[sharronhurlbut]

Greetings!

Sorry that it has been such a long time since our last update - we've been a bit busy here in FL! Here's the latest:

As of Thursday, all basenjis have physically been released from HCAS (they delivered!). Moms and pups are still HCAS-ownership dogs until they have been spayed and neutered. The adults are decompressing here in Basenji-Town after a month and a half in isolation in cement runs that amplified the sounds of constantly barking dogs. They are visibly more relaxed, though the fearful ones obviously are going to take much more time to believe that humans are really good. They definitely became accustomed to having a heated floor at HCAS - they do not appreciate the unusually cold temperatures we've been having in FL. Crates provided by BCOA (THANK YOU for your generosity!) are beginning to arrive and will be appreciated by the basenjis who'd like a den in their kennel runs. While they are out during the day, their routine includes moving inside every night. They are getting pretty good at following directions. The five five-month-old pups that were doing so well with socialization at HCAS are in three different foster homes (Susan, Jeanetta and Erin are foster moms) and are all doing well. While they will generally be more timid than the younger pups, they are already suitable for placing in the right forever homes.

The dynamics have changed with the adults and older shy pups - they are back in a more pack-like setting, able to see each other and visit through rigid wire kennels, though they remain separated while I get to know who is okay with whom. Unlike what we generally expect in basenji-world, the male-male aggression is much greater than the female-female aggression. Many of the females really seem to enjoy each other's company - the first two moms I've been fostering play together, sleep together, mother orphan pups together, etc. Most of the dogs now whimper in anticipation when they see me coming. All Wimauma basenjis are beginning to soften towards human males (early at HCAS, staff had noted how threatened all of the basenjis were by the male staff, so most required interaction was with female staff). Backed by the power of the pack, the male basenjis were more aggressive towards men when they first arrived. Regular treats by John and Chris (my dad and my husband) are winning them over.

I've had help from Jeanetta and Jacquie from Tampa when the basenjis first arrived and the routine was a bit more labor-intensive. The basenjis have settled into an easier routine, so my workload is finally easing a bit. We will be ready for visitors to come in for more socialization shortly, to be followed by moving many of the adults into foster homes further north. I know Anne and Donald miss the kids at HCAS and are eager to work with the adults. These basenjis have some really neat personalities. It is great to see them blossoming. All of the adults will play with toys and/or each other, though the most shy of the lot will stop if they realize a human is watching...

Everyone in the nursery is doing quite well. The nine oldest pups are ready to place soon. Their ears are starting to go up again, though there is one whose ears are starting to go down again as his ears have hit another growth spurt. Now that they are getting older and bigger, I can see more of a difference in sizes. There are three "smalls," five "mediums" and one "large." There were three lactating females when they were first brought into HCAS, so these sizes may be an indication of three litters all born within a couple of weeks of each other. Koka, who was initially a very defensive mom, has become quite eager to get some rubbing and scratching. Her seven pups are very plump (Koka has an enormous supply of milk...) and are just starting to walk around a bit. They are about 4 weeks old and have an unusual variety of beautiful coat colors. Keondra was initially fairly fearful of humans at HCAS, but now accepts attention quite well. She is still very submissive towards humans and usually prefers to follow when on leash - it seems strange to not be dragged around by a basenji... Her nine pups are just a couple of weeks old. They appear to all be tris and are just beginning to open their eyes. Kenyatta's four surviving pups are doing great - against the odds! At three weeks old, they are plump with eyes wide open and beginning to stagger around. One is a beautiful tri with a fair amount of white - will she have a blue eye or two? The coats on the other three are changing.

Unfortunately, Kenyatta's pups will be forever orphaned. We had to humanely euthanize Kenyatta Saturday. She had been plagued by serious health problems for some time. Late Friday night, her vomit became very dark and foul, prompting me to take her in early Saturday. Unfortunately, one of the issues may have been ulcers. She had a rupture along her intestinal tract, resulting in waste being dumped into her torso. There was significant scarring of her tract, so much that the exit scarred shut. She was so incredibly stoic throughout her time with us. Palpations should have prompted a significant, negative, defensive reaction from her - she never even flinched. She is no longer suffering - waiting patiently for us at the bridge. My vet, Dr. Rumore, was kind enough to do a necropsy that confirmed her condition - we made the right decision. At least she received a lot of love and comfort in her last weeks. Her exceptional personality prompted more help from HCAS vet services than they can usually give to most dogs that pass through - she received their first successful transfusion! She became part pit bull, receiving blood from an ambassador pit bull named Cherry.

As always, we appreciate everyone's moral and monetary support. Anyone wishing to make a donation towards this rescue project may do so through this link:

http://basenjirescue.org/donations/FLBasenjisDonation.asp


Pam Hamilton
FL District Coordinator
Advisory Director
Basenji Rescue and Transport

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN

[sharronhurlbut]

Hi, everyone,

I was notified that the link to the donation page that I included in today's
update was not a good link. I apologize. Here is the correct link:

http://basenjirescue.org/donations/FLBasenjisDonation.asp

You can also go to BRAT's home page www.basenjirescue.org , scroll down to
the lower left corner to the pictures of the two pups, and click on the link
under the picture.

Sincerely,

Debbi Johnson
BRAT Treasurer & Director
Germantown, TN
debbijbasenjirescue@comcast.net

[abreaze]

Hi, this is my first post, although I've been lurking around reading for a while. My husband and I became interested in Basenjis when we adopted a half Basenji/half Sheltie last year. Fido is a wonderful dog and looks just like a red and white B. with short hair,tail curl, up ears, wrinkled forehead and all. Just a narrow Sheltie face. I have worked with animal rescue groups for years and thought I would apply to be a Basenji foster. We went through the application process and home visit, never expecting that there might be a puppy available. This was before we got word of the Wimauma dogs.

Long story short, I got the call from Debbi Johnson two nights ago and my dog loving husband Mark and I drove up to Seminole from Sarasota to Pam Hamilton's yesterday. We spent a wonderful afternoon visiting all the wonderful Bs. Pam is a miracle worker. A much younger, prettier version of a Basenji Mother Teresa! We spent some time with the older shyer dogs first, helping them get used to strangers, offering treats and talking to them. They are very wary but you can see how well they respond to Pam. Then we got to see the first batch of older puppies. Well, there are no words to describe how beautiful, healthy and full of vitality they are.

Pam then brought out the younger ones. Oh those babies tug at your heart strings. Each one more adorable than the other. They are also shiny and bouncing bundles of joy.

When it came time to chose a forever pup I was torn. An older boy was a favorite, but we had wanted a girl. I would have had to wait another 3 or 4 weeks for an available girl. Finally, (after changing my mind several times) we chose Jabu, a stunning tri male with a charming "laid back dude" sort of personality.

He slept in my lap on the way home while my husband Mark drove. Fido loved him right away and showed him around the yard and house. Roxie, our 15 year old chi/doxie is more grumpy, but accepting. The cats are curious and Jabu seems to think that they are "alien dogs".

Last night we took Jabu out for his first walk on a leash, with Fido. Jabu just didn't know what to do and sat down in the street until Seymour the cat came up and just led him along. We were in hysterics.

He slept like an angel in his crate and pottied outside like a champ. We are in love with him already and he fits right into our family.

Pam Hamilton is a remarkable woman and I can't say enough about how much she is doing for these dogs.

Sorry this is so long, I know I am gushing.
I've put pictures in an album on the site if you can get to them.

Looking forward to being part of the "Basenji family"

Annette
Sarasota, FL

[jonny b.]

That is a WONDERFUL story. Thank you for sharing. :) enjoy and God bless.

[Basenjimamma]

I agree with JohnnyB..what a wonderful story..lucky you.. I hope to see lots of pictures..soon.

[sharronhurlbut]

Oh, please gush all you want...I can't wait to see the photos.
This little boy b is very lucky to have landed in your home.
Hugs

[agilebasenji]

Thanks for sharing the story, now please share some photos!

[abreaze]

Hi everyone,

I have posted some pictures in my album. If you click on my name (abreaze) a drop down menu should appear. Click on "View public profile" and it should take you to my page where you can access my album. If you hover your curser over each picture you should see a caption.
Let me know if this works.

Having fun this beautiful day with my little pack.

A.

[Kipawa]

Jabu is a handsome young dude. Thank goodness for the rescue of these dogs. Hopefully they will all find good homes.

[sharronhurlbut]

Great photos. I hope all of these b's get loving homes.

[MacPack]

Congratulations! Jabu is darling and lucky to have you for his forever home.

[sharronhurlbut]

Check out the new thread re Fl BRAT puppies needing homes.
Maybe there is one for you???

[Triciaw]

Here is the mahogany colored female, Kizzie, with green-gold eyes...stunning!

Well, thanks to this thread (dont know how I missed the story in the news), we visited Pam and the rescued Basenji's today. We brought our 10 year old basenji with us, and we all had a blast. We decided to adopt Kizzie and give her the loving home she deserves. We recently lost a beagle of 10 years and our basenji has been so lost without "her beagle". My wife and I love animals, have been married 21 years, and have no kids, so our animals have always been our kids. They are spoiled just as much as any of our friends or relatives kids, and we enjoy doing it. We are ready for the unique challenge that awaits us. Our goal is to get Kizzy comfortable enough that she want to go out in the boat with us, as we live on the Gulf, and our basenji loves to go boating.
Pam still had at least 1 puppy, a few kids and lots of adults available. My wife would have taken a few more home if I would have agreed.:)

[jonny b.]

God bless you! Enjoy your new family member

[MacPack]

Awesome! I love Kizzie, I worked with her and 4 others while they were still at the shelter. She is gorgeous and was a sweetheart. I haven't sen her in along time and am so glad she found her forever home.

We have a group that gets together in Tampa every Sunday, would love to have you join us once you get her settled. One of the boys in that shelter kid-group was adopted by a Clearwater couple and has come to the park to meet the "big basenji gang" and he did great.

At any rate, big congratulations and maybe we can meet up someday!

[thunderbird8588]

Great news Triciaw, welcome to the forum.
Pics would be great:D