Welcome to the Greyt Expectations Greyhound Rescue (GEGR) blog page! Here you will find information about our current foster dogs, events, and other information. We are located in Southern Maryland region and help racing Greyhounds into retirement throughout Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and the Washington, D.C areas! Whether you are looking for a 4-legged family member, a volunteer opportunity, or for new friends, we are excited you are here!

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Showing posts with label Artex Oyster. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Artex Oyster. Show all posts

Artex Oyster: 11/27 - Feeling Good!

Hi loyal fans!

It's me, Oyster. I'm so excited because foster mom says I might be finding my forever family really soon. I'm finally done with all of my medications and I'm more energetic and playful than ever. Foster mom says she can see a change in me...for the better (as if that was possible). I got some toys out today and chewed a bone...I haven't done either for a long time. I even tried to play bow with foster mom and came real close to trying a zoomie. It made foster mom so happy to see me acting like a young dog again. These past 4 months have been tough, but I know it's all been for the best so I could meet the people that are going to love and care for me forever.


So...here's my Christmas list:

1) toys, bones and yummy treats (plain milk bones are my favorite)

2) A family to call my own

See! Short and sweet. I don't ask for much, just all the love you can give. I promise, I'll return it ten fold.

Hope to see you soon forever family. I know you're out there waiting for me!


Love,
Oyster


Artex Oyster: 11/23 - Black (Dog) Friday!

Hi everyone!

I just thought I'd hop on to say I had a wonderful first Thanksgiving and that I really dig the holidays. So many visitors and people to pet me, plus I got another dog to hang out with! Her name is Charlie and she's a lab mix who belongs to foster dad's brother. She's super fun, but I distracted her with my toys so I could get all the cuddles. See me holding on to him? I got his number.


Speaking of black dogs... FM says today was Black Friday. Apparently, this is when the humans get to wake up crazy early and fight each other for bargains. As for me, I'd just as soon sleep in and keep you cozy and warm in these chilly cold months. Let's call it Black DOG Friday and just stay in and snuggle. Cool? Cool.

Did you know statistically speaking, black coated animals are less likely to be chosen for adoption? I know that can't be true because I'm the most awesome dog there is. There's no way someone would look past me. So make sure when I show up at an adoption event with GEGR, you give me a second look, because my handsome face deserves a warm and loving home for the holidays.


Yours truly,

Oyster

Artex Oyster: 11/15 - SNOW DAY!

Hi everyone! Oyster here. FM is excited to share something besides me just laying around the house. I got to check out that freezing cold white stuff today called snow. The tiny humans had fun playing in it...I was happy to sniff, but when my tootsies got cold again, I was ready to go inside. Check out some of my pics below! Don't I look handsome against a winter wonderland?!

First tracks today. 

 Rockin' the snood. I could be a model pup.

Catching snowflakes on my tongue


 Walkin' in a winter wonderland.

Ok, my toes is froze and I'm getting snowflakes all over my black fur... Can we go in now?


 Ahhhh...That's what I'm talking about!

Artex Oyster: 11/08 - Na Na Na Na Hey Hey Hey...GOOD BYE...heartworms.

Hey Hey Oyster fans,

It's your main pup here and I am EXCITED! Guess why? I am DONE with my heart worm treatment!  Woot Woot! Ok...maybe at this current moment foster mom is more excited than me. I'm still sleeping off the pain meds and the injection for the day. But, I've been promised no more painful injections, so I'm doing some jumps for joy on the inside.

Now that these nasty worms are going the way of the dodo, I'm so excited to start my life anew. Foster mom says I still have restricted activity for another month, but as soon as that's up, I'll be introduced to my new forever family. I can't wait to meet you if you're out there waiting for me! Be sure that you let the folks at GEGR know if you're interested in me and if they think we are a good match, we can meet!




Some things I'm looking for in a forever family:


Must be kind to me. I'm a sensitive soul.

Must not mind my constant companionship. I'll be your shadow and make sure you never feel lonely.

Must provide tasty treats and a cozy bed. I love my food and I love my comfort.

Must be willing to patiently ease me back into exercise. Think about if someone asked you to run a mile after you laid on the couch for 3 months. I need to build up my muscles and stamina before I'm turned loose again or go for a big romp.

Must love kisses and giving head rubs. I will leave the full weight of my head on your lap for snuggle time.

Bonus points: If you have another canine companion for me, it really helps me come out of my shell and live my best life, but if you don't that's ok, just know I'll never leave your side and I'll be so excited to see you when you come home.

What I can offer my new family:

Unconditional love and devotion. Help cleaning the floor of crumbs and a best friend for life.

Love,
Oyster









Artex Oyster: 10/24 - Tiny Humans!

Hi everyone! It's the O man.

I just had to share a new experience I had today. I met the tiniest human ever! It was not like the little humans I live with who run and talk and play. It was a little lump of cuteness and it was very loud.

I was really curious, so I sniffed and wagged my tail excitedly, but when foster mom told me not to slobber on him, I did as I was told. I was worried he was crying, but his mom took care of him and I was totally at ease with him after that. When it was time for him to go, I walked him to the door and made sure his blanket was nice and cozy for him, because it's chilly out today.

I guess you could say I enjoy tiny humans of all ages. So if you're out there forever family and you have some tiny humans of your own, just know I'll be sweet to them and I hope they will be sweet to me too.

Tell them the best way to get on my good side it to share all the yummy snacks with me!


- Oyster


PS

Foster mom says, "Maybe not ALL the snacks." Bah...she's no fun.



Artex Oyster: 10/21/18 - New Adventures

Hi everyone. Oyster here!

I just wanted to share my weekend adventure with you! I'm feeling back to my old self again while I wait for my last 2 injections next month. Foster mom and dad had a wedding to attend in Virginia this weekend, so I got to go to what I believe was a greyhound spa and resort. I got to calmly socialize with some greyhound buddies to include fellow foster pup, Redmond! I was so happy to be in their company that I really think I'd love to be adopted to a family that will have a canine sibling for me. I just feel complete that way. Don't forget though, I really love my people and want to be with them all the time. My favorite kind of cuddle is for you to just take my head in your hands and scratch my ears and hold me close. I feel so loved that way. I might even give you kisses as a thank you!





When foster mom picked me up today, the other humans that watched me said I was on my best behavior. I'm still so gentle on a leash and did great going potty outside. I ate all my food and drank well. I really love food, but I've NEVER tried to jump on the counters and take what's not offered to me. I'm a real gentleman that way. I even helped my gracious hosts fold the laundry!





Did I also mention I love curling up in a blanket and snuggling in on a cozy bed. It's just the best! Can't you see me and my handsome face nestled by the fire with you this winter? You could even wrap me up in a big red bow for Christmas. Foster mom says I look good in red.  Anyway, I'm gonna go take a snooze after my long car ride to foster mom's house today.




Until next time!
Oyster AKA The Shadow Dog.

Artex Oyster: 10/10 - So It Begins...

Hi everyone.

Oyster is finally resting, so I'll be blogging for him tonight.

Today was his first injection to kill the adult heart worms. If you are not familiar with this process, a heart worm positive dog who goes through treatment will get 3 immiticide injections deep into the muscle. One initial injection, followed by 2 additional injections a month later. An unfortunate side effect of this is severe pain and soreness at the injection site. Our boy was a trooper for his appointment, allowing the vet to perform her tasks without complaint. He received injectable and oral pain meds during his visit, but they weren't quite enough to take the edge off. So... we returned later in the day to get something a bit stronger, which ultimately did the trick. He's sleeping comfortably now. He will have more pain meds at his disposal as needed for the next several days as the pain subsides and the muscle heals. He is still on exercise restriction, and it is more important than ever that he stays calm as the final parasites are broken down.

All I have to say for this dog is that he is so strong, so resilient and so trusting of his caregivers. He is going through a miserable time and is still the same sweet boy I've come to know despite it all. We are giving him lots of TLC and I just CANNOT wait to meet healthy Oyster when we come out the other side of this. He's a really special guy.


On a positive note, he's gained a needed 7 lbs since he joined us at GEGR. His coat is still a bit dull, but not his spirit. When he is all healed up, his outer beauty will surely match his beautiful soul. So, send your love and support to Oyster as he faces the most difficult part of his journey to being a healthy retiree. I know he will appreciate your words of encouragement.


Thank you,
Oyster's Foster Mom.

 Waiting to see the doctor today.

Back in bed with an ice pack after his appointment.

Artex Oyster: 10/1 - Shopping Trip

Hello loyal fanbase!

Oyster here. I've been feeling cooped up lately, so foster mom took me out for a short little trip. She did a happy dance because I stepped into the van all by myself for the first time. She was so proud of me and said her back thanked me too...whatever that means. She picks up her tiny humans all the time, I don't see why I'm any different. After all, I'm just a 2 year old.  I also showed off my awesome waiting skills when she opened the van door to let me out. I love it when foster mom is proud of me.

Anywho...we went to this HUUUUGE place that was  orange and white with all sorts of crazy stuff, loud machines and big carts. Not having seen much of the world, I was a little nervous at first. I knew foster mom had my back, so I stuck close and let her take the lead. I got a lot of people to stop and pet me by staring up at them with my Sad Moon Eyes (trademark Artex Oyster - 2018). They all said I was just the sweetest boy. All I wanna know is why they had no treats for me.

We made a quick pitstop outside to smell the flowers, then came inside to grab a few things for foster mom to decorate the house. She says there's a holiday coming up called Halloween. All I wanna know is there food involved? She told me the next holiday in November might be more my scene.

Well, I just wanted to share a bit about my morning. I'm now ready to take a siesta on my cozy bed and dream of food, fun and my forever family.

Until next time!

-Oyster

 Oooo let's get this one! I bet foster sister would like this one!

Is yellow my color?

What was that?! Batdog ears on high alert


Mmmm. These smell good. Can I eat them?

AAAAH What is wrong with you people? Bring on the day of turkey.

Artex Oyster: 9/16 - Wait for Me!

Hi adopters! Oyster here.

I am half way through my heart worm treatment and doing really well. Foster mom wanted to take a minute today to tell you why I'm so worth the wait to adopt me as a new member of your family...


Hi everyone,

Oyster is such a special dog. He has so many wonderful qualities that will make him a perfect addition to the right family. Here are my top ten reasons Oyster boy is worth the wait.

10) He's absolutely adorable. His sad little moon eyes will talk you into sharing your snack or giving him some pats every time. His beautiful black coat is striking and people who meet him on the street always say how handsome he is.

9) He's very smart. Oyster would love a family that will do engaging activities with him. His love of scrumptious morsels would make him an excellent candidate for nose work or obedience. He's highly food motivated, which makes training all the easier. He is doing really well with the "wait" and "stay" commands, as well as "come".

8) He's wonderful with children. While, like any greyhound, he would really appreciate that they don't play rough with him, he's equally as gentle in return.  He's also a great helper at cleaning up crumbs in the kitchen and under the table. Anyone with little kids knows how awesome that is. ;-)

7) Oyster loves the rain! He's happy to go outside rain or shine and even gets a little frisky and wants to play if it's raining.  No fence? No problem! If you don't want to stand out for long, no problem either, he gets right down to his business immediately when he's taken outside.

6) He's got great social skills with other dogs and would probably love to live with another dog, but can be an only as well...as long as his people are around more often than not. He did test cat safe at GHC, but has not been living with one in our home. He does love routine, so home that can give him a more predictable schedule will make this boy extra happy.

5) He's very affectionate. No aloofness with this pup. He wants to be with you everywhere you go if you'll let him. If you lay on the floor with him, he will snuggle and give kisses, roll on his back and ask for scratches. He also loves back scratches and will do a little dance to show you how much he enjoys it!

4) He likes to fetch...ok, well we can't really do a full on game of fetch right now... but he loves toys and balls and if you roll it away he will go get it and bring it back...sometimes dropping it at your feet...sometimes daring you to come get it from him, haha. But he's always gentle about it.

3) Oyster is great on a leash. He's respectful of the pace you want to go. He's also mastered stairs and has no worries over hardwood floors. He's a good boy in the car, but prefers to have a bed to lay on in the back or he may try to join you in the front seat if you've not provided him somewhere soft to lay down.

2) He's playful, but also so happy to curl up at your feet for a nap any time of day or stretch out on a Cushy dog bed for a snooze. We don't allow him on the sofa or our beds, and he's content with that, but if you want him to join you...I'm sure he could be easily persuaded.

1) Oyster is a real people pup. If you want a dog that is going to look at you as the center of his universe, he's your boy. He has so much love to give. So if you are looking for affection, adoration and smarts, look no further than Oyster. He's so worth it.



Artex Oyster: 9/4 - Play time!

Oyster had some videos he wanted me to share. This boy is great inside and out.



Here he is on leash outside:



https://youtu.be/OLLCgTiNViI

Here he is playing with his puzzle box:

https://youtu.be/sboFHnZxriw




Bye for now!
Oyster







Artex Oyster: 8/24 - Days in the Sun


Hi everyone! Oyster here. 

Life is moving pretty slow now a days. I've really wanted to get out and stretch my legs, but since I'm not allowed to right now, foster family is at least trying to give me some time in the sunshine. Little foster sister wanted to make me a tent, so I had some shade. She's so sweet to me. I really do enjoy the tiny humans. They give me gentle pats and their mouths are always covered in something yummy to lick. (For some reason Foster mom doesn't really like me doing that...can't imagine why... It's a treat for me and they get a bath. Win/Win!) 

Anyway, I met some other neighborhood kids that are a bit older than my foster sisters the other day and I really liked them too. They crowded around me and I got to turn around and sniff each one of them while I got some pats. Some dogs may not like kids in their space, but I don't really mind, as long as they are gentle and giving me loving attention. I would rather they didn't hug me though. It's confusing and I wriggle a lot to get away from it. Ear and back scratches are my favorite form of attention. 

My heartworm treatment journey continues slowly, but surely. I'm really good at taking my meds and eating my food. I LOVE food in any form. It's so tempting when I'm table height to grab something, but foster mom has been rewarding me when I go lay on my bed during dinner, so I pretty much go lay down automatically now when the family is eating. I do like to watch you cook though, so if you don't mind me watching your every move, I'll be right there to be your sous chef and clean up any dropped crumbs. 

Here's some photos of me hanging out in my little outdoor bungalow with one of my human foster sisters. And me on my bed at dinner time.

Until next time! 

-Oyster







Artex Oyster: 8/11 - Heartworm Treatment 101

Hi Everyone! Oyster here. I wanted to give you all an update on how I'm doing with my heartworm treatment. For those of you that don't know how it works, let me give you a little introduction. Normally, when a pup is on heartworm prevention he would get one tasty beef chew like the one below or possibly a hard chewable tablet once a month. Instead, I have to take a pile of pills EVERY DAY for a couple months. My foster mom makes it easier on me by wrapping them in something yummy. Still, it's a lot to deal with.  I'm staying positive because I know foster mom cares about me getting better. In a couple months when the pills are done, I have to get a series of injections to kill off any adult worms present. I'm not excited about this, but I am a tough boy ready to take on anything. I don't want any of my other canine friends to go through this too, so please make sure you are giving preventatives to your pups every month. My condition is 100% preventable. There are many different options available, so ask your Veterinarian about which type is best for your canine pal.

P.S. Did you know you can get practically a lifetime supply of preventatives for the cost of heartworm disease treatment? It's a no brainer!



Another thing that's kind of a bummer is I cannot exercise...AT ALL...for months during my treatment. Having a raised heart rate can create risks in my treatment process, so I can't go outside to walk more than just to go potty. I can't play and run, climb or jump. I guess the lucky thing is that I'm a greyhound and a couch potato by nature. Still, I don't like missing out. Since I can't have physical exercise, foster mom tries to do mental games with me to expel my energy. We are doing wait training, quiet time training, and hide and seek with treats/kibble. It's a great way for me to learn the ropes of living in a home too.  Anyway, I wish this wasn't how things have to be, but I'm told if I play by the rules now, I can go on to live a happy, healthy life and eventually be able to romp and have a blast like any other pup!

In the meantime, I'm working on perfecting my sad eyes to get sympathy and lots of treats. How am I doing? Foster mom says she can almost hear Sarah McLachlan playing in the background whenever I look at her. #nailedit!


Finally, I close with some interesting facts about heartworms:

1) Dogs contract heartworms from mosquitos. If you live in an area with lots of them, preventatives are essential!
2) Heartworms are NOT contagious to people or dog to dog. Part of the lifecycle must go through a mosquito for the worms to mature to adults
3) Heartworms can make their way into cats sometimes by mistake, but it is very rare. The dog is the preferred host.
4) There are different stages of heartworm disease progression. If left untreated, heartworm disease is fatal. 
5) Doxycycline (the blue pills in the photo) is an antibiotic used to kill a bacteria the worms need to survive and reproduce. We give it ahead of the injections to sterilize existing worms, so the load can't increase. 



Thanks for reading and until next time!

-Oyster


Artex Oyster: 8/7/18 - Taking it in Stride

Hi everybody!

My name is Oyster and I'm the sweetest boy ever! I have the cutest little "bat ears" that point straight up when I hear something; and the biggest soulful brown eyes. So far my favorite thing about retirement is snuggling with some cozy blankets and peanut butter! My foster family has 2 tiny humans in it as well. They love me and I think they're pretty awesome too.

I've been learning all sorts of new things like how to wait patiently when asked and working on alone time. I LOVE to eat, so I'm really enjoying having food as a reward for good behavior. I am also a little shadow. Wherever you go, I'll be right behind you. I don't like to miss out on anything you're doing. I even love to watch tv! My leash manners are great and I've been doing really well letting my foster mom know when I need to go outside to go potty.

As you may have seen on the GEGR website, I am not yet available for adoption. My veterinarian has determined I'm something called heartworm positive. This means I have an infection of icky worms in my bloodstream, and possibly my heart, that could make me very sick if left untreated.  I'm so grateful the folks at GEGR, my foster family, and my veterinarian are doing everything they can to make me all better again. I'm strong and I know even though it's a long road, I can do it!  Stay tuned for more updates on my journey through my treatment and into this awesome new thing called retirement.

-Oyster


Blankets are THE best!

What we watchin'?

My human foster sisters helping me look for the vet at my first appointment


Little foster sister tells me everything's gonna be ok.

Want to know more about how you prevent heartworm disease in your dog? Visit: https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm-prevention-for-dogs