Share Your Scottie Love Story

Scottie Love is in the air. Can you feel it? With days left until Valentine's Day, I'm opening the Scottie Love line, encouraging everyone to submit “gotcha” stories of how your pup came into your heart and your home. Tell me all about your puppy love story below in the comments. Share as little or as much as you want about your "gotcha" story! A lucky few will be profiled right here on the blog.

Scottie Love found me by accident. I accompanied a friend to a shelter because she wanted to welcome a dog into her home and can you guess which one of us ended up finding a furry friend to love that day? Hint: not her! I found Mr. K depressed and all alone at the shelter. He wouldn't even make eye contact with me and he looked nothing like a Scottish Terrier. Still, I knew I had to give this sweet boy a forever home. No one deserved to be that unhappy. The rest, my friends, is history.

See Mr. K's dramatic transformation.

Fast forward about a year later and into my life came Heather. I was determined to find Mr. K a friend, having moved to a new city and taken a new job that kept me away longer than I would have liked. That's when I spotted a gorgeous wheaten girl in the care of Tennessee Scottish Terrier Rescue. She had been found in a raccoon trap, was missing some teeth and yet, she was perfect in every way. Mr. K and Heather pretty much ignored each other when they met but it didn't take long for them to be bitten by the Scottie Love bug. The two were inseparable until Heather's passing.

From raccoon trap to forever home: Heather's story.

When I decided it was time to expand the Scottie Mom family, the crew literally doubled in size overnight when a bonded pair came home. Once again, the Scotties ignored each other at first, but it was clear Nibbles had decided she and her brother Pudley were exactly where they needed to be when she hopped into the Scottie Mobile without invitation and sat there patiently waiting to be chauffeured to their new forever home, where happily ever after they shall live.

Now that you know my Scottie Love story, it is your turn to share yours! Was it Scottie Love at first sight? Or maybe you were bitten by the Scottie Love bug a little later on. Whatever the situation, I'm sure it is a Scottie Love story to remember and I'd love to hear it. Share the details below or contact us here to submit your Scottie Love story for consideration as a feature on the blog.

What It Takes to Save Nine Lives

It is a tale of nine lives. Not of the feline persuasion, but of nine Scottish Terriers who found themselves in need of safe and loving homes after a terrible car accident took their Scottie Mom from this Earth. In two short days, Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil mobilized its members across the country for fundraising and other necessary preparations to carry out the biggest rescue effort the group had ever taken on at one time.

Max, Maya and Elisabeth right after they were taken into rescue

Four rescue members arrived at the home in which the Scottie dogs were kept in March 2016. Two of the pups went to a pet care center owned by a member of Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil, five more went with Ana Helena, rescue board member, to her home and the remaining two went to foster homes individually. There were no records of vaccinations and so all nine Scottish Terriers received updated shots and underwent medical evaluations that showed:

• Bella, age 6, had otitis, bite marks and scars on her body
• Elisabeth, age 6, also had otitis, bite marks and scars on her body
• Jordan, age 5, was in good health
• Maya, age 8, had otitis, a urinary tract infection and teeth needing treatment
• Alice, age 10, experience difficulty chewing as a result of tooth loss
• Max, age 3, had no fur on his body due to scabies plus otitis, conjunctivitis, an intestinal infection and anemia
• Pepper, age 2, was in good health
• Tata, age 7, had severe otitis, major arthrosis and back pain, infected mouth lesions, teeth needing urgent treatment and scars on her body as well
• Yoshi, age 10, was underweight and had an enlarged liver, compromised prostate, a nodule on his neck, severe intestinal infection and otitis

And so, the healing process for these nine Scottish Terriers began. Tata and Yoshi, now fostered by rescue member Dani, went through surgeries to treat their problems. The others were started on medications and had frequent visits with vets. Despite their conditions, all nine Scottie dogs are extremely affectionate, giving back the attention they receive, rescue members say.

Bella and her forever family

Elisabeth and her forever family

Jordan and his forever family

Maya

Alice

Pepper

Soon after they received positive evaluations from the vets, three of the dogs (Bella, Alice and Pepper) became what we lovingly refer to as "foster failures" and were adopted by the families that took them into their homes. Maya, Jordan and Elisabeth were adopted by applicants selected through the typical adoption process. Max, who underwent a long journey to recover, has since gained hair, weight and strength and no longer has infections. This Christmas, Ana Helena informed her fellow rescue members that she and her husband wanted to give Max his forever home.

Max today!

Tata

Yoshi

Today, Yoshi and Tata have found their forever homes with Dani. Yoshi has progressed well and is stronger, active and very affectionate toward those who take care of him. Tata underwent another surgery in December but it is clear both are on the right path thanks to Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil.

It truly takes a village to pull off rescue missions such as the one in this tale of nine lives. I want to thank Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil personally for the work they do, for saving these sweet pups and giving them each a chance at happily ever after. Stories like this are the reason I am so passionate about adopting Scottish Terriers (or any other animal, for that matter!). Want to join me in thanking Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil? Leave a comment for them in the space below or head over to their Facebook page to say hello...be sure to tell them Scottie Mom sent you!

Save a Scottie: Romeo

Friends, sweet Romeo the Scottish Terrier needs our help. Only 12 weeks old when he found himself in a rescue program, this Scottie boy has so much more life to live and we want to give him his best shot! You see, Romeo has a heart condition - a birth defect no one realized he had at first - that requires surgery. To date, the costs of his medical care including the medication he's been on for about 9 months now and all the testing have been shared by two rescue groups: Mid Atlantic Scottish Terrier Education and Rescue and Scottish Terrier Club of Greater New York Rescue. But they need our help paying for Romeo's heart surgery...and they're so close to reaching their fundraising goal!

Will you help this one-year-old boy live his life to the fullest? You can make a donation of any size as well as learn more about the fundraising project and Romeo's story here. Thank you in advance!

Beautiful Brindle Needs Forever Home

Meet Trixie, currently in the adoption program with Aberdeen Scottish Terrier Rescue. Isn't she gorgeous? I fell in love with this girl the minute I saw her photo. And if I lived closer to Washington (state), Trixie probably would have already been welcomed into the Scottie House. After all, who could say "no" to a beautiful brindle that has big, expressive eyes like my late Heather?

Trixie is 8 years old. She is spayed, microchipped and up-to-date on vaccinations. Her foster Scottie Mom describes her as "perfect" and says, "she's easy with baths, gives kisses and loves to cuddle up at night." Trixie even lets her foster Scottie sister steal her favorite toys and share the same food dish without any aggression. She knows basic commands and is looking for an experienced Scottie Mom (or Dad!) who will be the pack leader. Much like my Pudley, she may need some training on leash aggression and barks at other dogs while on walks but still gets along fairly well with dogs.

If you think you might be the perfect Scottie Mom (or Dad!) for Trixie, submit an application online by clicking this link. For those whose Scottie Houses currently are full at the moment but want to help make it easier for this pup to find a loving home, please share Trixie's story to help raise awareness for her cause. Together, we can find this sweet Scottie girl the forever home she deserves!

How to Help a Rescue Dog Settle in to a Forever Home

Today marks one month since Nibbles and Pudley joined the Scottie Mom family. They have been a happy and welcome surprise that changed my life in many ways already. Not only are they little balls of energy but they are as mischievous as they are loving. With each day they are here, their personalities break through that initial veil of shyness that is quickly becoming a thing of the past.

Many Scottie Moms asked to hear more about their transition and how they were settling in at home. And I thought, what better way to share that story than to also offer up some advice to those thinking about or ready to add another rescue Scottie to their family? While the transition period for Nibbles and Pudley has been an easy and short one, the following tips apply to just about any scenario when bringing another dog home. Feel free to add your own tips in the comments below.

Pudley & Nibbles their first day home.

Give them a place of their own. When Nibbles and Pudley arrived, I let them have a room to themselves when I wasn't home. In that room were beds only for their use. It was on a different level from where Heather and Mr. K stayed so they wouldn't be bothered by dogs sniffing under the door out of curiosity. Instead, they had a cool, quiet oasis where this bonded pair could enjoy each other's company as they got acquainted to their new home. 

Human beds are the best!

Let them choose bedtime arrangements. I'm not a fan of crates but I understand many dogs - including Mr. K - think of them as a "safe place." So, I dug the crates we have out of the closet and set them up in case our new friends felt more comfortable with their beds inside the crate. For the first few nights, that's exactly where they stayed (usually with the doors open). Then, Nibbles and Pudley discovered the human bed and haven't looked back since.

Who me? Of course, I didn't make this mess.

Puppy-proof everything. I honestly thought the Scottie House was as puppy-proofed as it could get. Having Nibbles and Pudley home, I quickly realized that puppy-proofing was not a one-size-fits-all solution. Unbeknownst to me, I had proofed the Scottie House to what I knew Heather and Mr. K were capable of getting into, not to what all dogs could do. So when I discovered Nibbles is part-Scottie, part-frog and can jump higher than any dog I have ever seen, I knew nothing on my dining room table, kitchen counters and shelves would be safe. 

Excuse us, these bowls are empty. Can we have get a refill, please?

Feed separately. It is okay to feed everyone at the same time but make sure they don't get into each other's space - at least until you know you aren't dealing with food-aggressive dogs. 

Oh, the places they will go!

Spend quality time with the newbies but make time for group activities, too. I split the walks up into groups of two. This helps Nibbles and Pudley familiarize themselves with the areas surrounding our home while I learn more about them. Sometimes, I venture out with all four - three in tow and Heather in her sweet, new ride. The favorite group activity here is playing with squeaky tennis balls. When that happens, the Scottie House turns into something of a mad house with Nibbles, Pudley and Mr. K zooming around as fast as they can go. 

5 Reasons to Foster Dogs

What does it take to open both heart and home to a dog that needs a place to stay until he or she is lucky enough to find a forever home? To earn the prestigious title of Foster Mom (or Dad!), one must be strong enough to love the dog as if he or she is your own and then say goodbye when the time has come. Unless, of course, you decide that foster failure is totally cool. We think so, too!

I owe the happiness I experience with three of my dogs to foster families. Without them, who knows where they would be today? They were fortunate to find a safe and loving home while they waited for one they could call their very own. For that, I'm eternally grateful. Fostering one dog may not change the world but for that one dog, life will have changed quite literally forever.

Still not convinced? Here are five additional reasons you should become a Foster Mom or Dad:

5. You're saving two dogs by opening up your home to one. By providing one foster dog a safe place in your home, you are opening up another spot within the rescue or shelter for another pup to stay while he or she awaits a foster or forever home of their own.

4. You will restore a dog's faith in humanity and life itself. When you foster a dog, you're not just providing a much-needed roof over his or her head. By socializing with your foster dog and giving him or her someone to believe in, you are opening your foster dog's heart and teaching him or her to love again, regardless of what life before you might have been like.

3. You will learn a little something, too. No two foster dogs are alike. Each have very distinct personalities and, more than likely, the dog you foster may come with some traits, habits or health/behavioral quirks you may not have encountered before. Some will teach you a thing or two about patience - if you don't already have it - and others will remind you of the importance of expressing gratitude for the simple things in life daily.

2. You're giving back in a very big way. Most people want to make a difference in life, no matter how big or small the gesture, whenever possible. Some donate funds, others donate time and talent. Still others, open their hearts and homes for foster dogs in need. The bottom line: they give. And to quote some famous person (not Winston Churchill, apparently), "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."

1. Your world (and the dog's) would be a happier place. Let's face it: it doesn't take much more than a safe and loving home to keep a dog happy. Where there's a happy dog, there's an even happier Foster Mom or Dad. Even research tells us that pets can improve overall well-being. Knowing you're making a difference is rewarding in and of itself. Knowing that your foster will never forget you for what you did makes the whole experience priceless. Just ask my three and their foster families. 

So...have I convinced you to open up your home to a foster dog yet? If so, be sure to check out our friends listed below. Know of another great Scottie rescue that may be in need of foster Scottie Moms and Dads? Let us know in the comment box below. Can't adopt or foster right now? Consider making a donation to help cover the costs of caring for Scotties in need. Together, we can save the world...one (Scottie) dog at a time!

• Aberdeen Scottish Terrier Rescue
• Alabama Scottish Terrier Rescue Association
• North Florida Scottie Rescue
• North Texas Scottie Rescue
• Scottie Kingdom Rescue
• Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil
• Scottish Terrier Rescue of Florida
• Scottish Terrier Rescue of South Africa
• Scottish Terrier Rescue of the Southeast
• Scottish Terrier Rescue of Tennessee
• St. Louis Scottish Terrier Rescue
• Texas Scottie Rescue

Dinner for Two + Two

The Scottie Mom family doubled in size one week ago today with the additions of Nibbles and Pudley, two wheaten Scottish Terriers ages 5-6 years old from Scottish Terrier Rescue of Tennessee.

To celebrate the one-week anniversary of being in their forever home, we surprised the Scottie quartet with a special meal by adding Natural Balance Delectable Delights® Wet Cups to their main course.

Pudley chowed down on Woof'eroleTM, Mr. K had Fish 'N ChicksTM, Nibbles enjoyed Duck'en-itasTM and Heather savored Surf 'N TurfTM.

Nibbles and Pudley, so fresh and clean after their first trip to the groomer, licked their bowls clean.

Heather barely came up for air until her Natural Balance Delectable Delights® Surf 'N Turf TM dinner was gone.

Mr. K pushed his bowl around the entire kitchen and finished his meal so fast, he didn't realize he left enough for dessert in his beard!

Time flies when you're having fun and welcoming two more rescue Scotties into your home. The Scottie House feels much more like a full house these days and we are loving every minute of it! Nibbles and Pudley have so much energy and share Mr. K's love of toys (note to self: stock up on squeaky tennis balls). They love to keep you company, smile constantly and are curious about everything...especially their new, older Scottie siblings.

Heather and Mr. K already have adjusted to life with Nibbles and Pudley. I was prepared for some resistance at first but truth be told, they've accepted their younger siblings readily. It is as if they remember what it was like to be a Scottie in need of a good home and want to give Nibbles and Pudley that same experience of feeling rest assured you'll be taken care of from this point forward.

So, it is safe to say Nibbles and Pudley are here to stay (although I was sure of it when Nibbles hopped into the Scottie Mobile without invitation just minutes after meeting everyone). To celebrate, I wanted to whip up something special for the Scottie quartet to enjoy but sadly, I'm no use in the kitchen. And I wasn't interested in handing over any treats, mostly because I knew The Overtreater would be visiting the same day. That's when we discovered Natural Balance Delectable Delights® Wet Cups, which are cooked to perfection and can be added to their regular food to spice things up or given as a meal on the go. Great for the Scottie Mom (or Dad!) that can't cook. Ready to try some?

This Scottie Mom is pretty choosy when it comes to what I feed my dogs. For years, I've had Mr. K on a limited ingredient diet because of allergies. Heather, on the other hand, eats anything but we'll soon explore food items that will help keep those liver values in check. Now with Nibbles and Pudley, who also seem to have allergies, it is even more important to stick to grain-free, wholesome ingredients. All requirements met by Natural Balance Delectable Delights® Wet Cups. 

With four flavors from which to choose, we were able to give Heather, Mr. K, Nibbles and Pudley their own custom dishes. Something tells me we'll be surprising them with Natural Balance Delectable Delights® Wet Cups again soon and switching up the flavors to see which they love most. (Who likes eating the same thing every day anyway?) To learn more, visit Natural Balance Delectable Delights® Wet Cups on Facebook or check out Instagram to take in all the cuteness happening there.

Many thanks to Natural Balance for sponsoring today's story and inspiring me to try their product!

A Scottie Love Story to Remember

Say what you will about social media but if it wasn't for Facebook, Scotties Pixie and Dixie would not be where they are today. Two years ago, we shared a post from Flathead County Animal Shelter in Kalispell, Montana on the Scottie Mom Facebook page. Within a short while, hundreds had commented and shared in hopes of finding a safe and loving home for this bonded pair who had been surrendered to the shelter along with a chocolate Labrador Retriever and Jack Russell Terrier. 

That's when Scottie Mom Michele stepped forward. 

"I didn’t belong to any Scottie rescue group pages, only the Scottie Mom page," Michele told us in an email. "I saw the picture of Pixie and Dixie and felt so sorry for them, sitting in the shelter and waiting for a home. I began to wonder if it was a crazy idea to adopt them. Then, I Googled how far it was from Reno, Nevada to Kalispell - which is almost at the Canadian border. There were flights to Kalispell from Reno but because it was June, the summer animal travel embargo was in effect so they couldn’t fly home with me." 

After getting a hold of the team at Flathead County Animal Shelter who agreed to hold Pixie and Dixie long enough for her to make the journey north, Scottie Mom Michele booked a flight and made reservations to rent a car for the 1,028 mile (or 14.5 hour) journey home. 

"When I landed in Montana, it was pouring rain," Scottie Mom Michele said. "I got my car, set the navigation system and headed for the shelter. The people there went back to get both the girls and brought them out to me but they were very skittish (and very overweight – they each weighed about 30 pounds and they are little dogs). I was so happy to meet them! They were just scared. I walked them to the car and they jumped into the back seat and off we went."

Remember Scotties Pixie and Dixie in Montana? They met their new Scottie Mom today! Hip-hip-ArRRoO for happy tales and happy tails!!
Posted by Scottie Mom on Wednesday, June 18, 2014

A quick stop at Petsmart and the trio went to check in at a nearby hotel for the evening. That's when I received the following message from Scottie Mom Michele via Facebook. 

"They are very timid, but I have already gotten a Scottie kiss from one of them," Scottie Mom Michele said. "These two little girls don't even respond to their names. They are extremely shy and are hanging out under the desk in the hotel room. They are great car riders, which will come in handy as we make the 1000 mile trek back to Reno." 

The next morning, Scottie Mom Michele woke up to see both girls standing with their front paws on the bed - seemingly ready for the day's adventures! They journeyed eight hours to Twin Falls, Idaho where they spent their second night together in another hotel. That's when I received another Facebook message from Michele. 

"A quick update on today's travels with Pixie and Dixie," Scottie Mom Michele wrote. "They are such good little travelers and so sweet, they sleep practically the entire time they are in the car but are ready to get out and walk as soon as I stop. They didn't eat anything last night, but today they are drinking plenty of water and have eaten a little. I can already see that they are warming up!"

At home in Reno, Pixie and Dixie finally got to meet the family including their new Scottie brother, Puck, known to be extremely social and very loving to other dogs.

Pixie smiling for the camera while Dixie says hello to Puck.

"It was a leap of faith to adopt two dogs who I had not had a meet-and-greet with but I knew we could give them a forever home, lots of love, and that everything would turn out fine," Scottie Mom Michele said. "I love walking in the door at the end of the day, to be greeted by all three, with wagging tails and kisses." 

Nearly two years later, Pixie and Dixie are down to 24 pounds each. They go for long walks twice per day with their Scottie Dad and love to play and run around with Puck. Their personalities have begun to shine through and they aren't afraid to snuggle up with the humans whenever they please. In December, Dixie had knee surgery requiring eight weeks of rehabilitation. She has recovered nicely. 

“My advice would be to make sure that you give a rescue plenty of time to adjust; it doesn’t happen overnight," Scottie Mom Michele said. "It takes time to earn their trust and their love and they need you not to give up on them. You never know what they have been through. It is so worth it!”

Pixie today

Dixie today

Forrest's Story

Forrest

Forrest with his rescuers and his forever family.

Forrest's rescue story begins on a rainy weekend on a road in Santa Catarina, Brazil. It is early evening and darkness is fast approaching. A young couple is on the road driving to their home in Florianopolis. The driver slows, seeing a ball of wheat-colored fur atop the next speed bump. He stops and puts on his hazard lights, realizing it is a small dog.

The man knew he couldn't leave the pup there to die. So, he picked the poor Scottie up and took him home. Once there, the couple dried off the small dog and examined him closer. He had been severely mistreated and was missing a lot of hair on his back. The couple took the dog to Doctor Pet Clinica Veterinaria, where a local vet, Dr. Diana Rosa suggested he be hospitalized. After extensive treatment for his skin problem, surgery to remove an abscess on his belly, a thorough teeth cleaning and more, he was ready to go into foster care. 

That's when Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil got involved and Liliane Ruy, a board member of the rescue, offered up her home to foster this sweet pup. It was there that she realized the pup's passion walking, always moving forward - like Forrest Gump. And so, she named him Forrest. Before long, he was ready for adoption and after 4,300 people looked at his profile, Forrest finally found his forever home. Enjoy your new life, Forrest, and happily ever after to you!.

Emma's Story

Emma before she found her forever home.

On a very special #TooCuteTuesday a good while ago, a rescue group named Wag N Train Terrier Rescue posted this darling picture of sweet Emma on the Scottie Mom Facebook page asking us to help find her a forever home. Within a few hours of us posting her picture, I heard from Emma's future Scottie Mom saying this sweet girl was getting the forever home of her dreams!

Up until that point, Emma led a very difficult life. A puppy mill Scottie, Emma didn't know what it was like to be loved and treated right by the people she encountered. And so, she was very shy and kept to herself. In fact, it wasn't until recently that she began feeling safe and comfortable enough to enjoy the simple pleasures in a Scottie's life like sitting on the couch and celebrating barkdays.

Just six weeks ago, I heard from Emma's Scottie Mom letting me know their other Scottie Baxter, who proudly served as Emma's adoptive Scottie brother, passed away suddenly from cancer - or as we call it, the evil "c." He was sick for only a few days. Our hearts sank. Then, I learned yesterday that tragedy had once again struck her Scottie House. Sweet Emma also has been diagnosed with the evil "c" and is expected to meet her brother Baxter over the rainbow bridge any day now. 

Emma's story breaks our hearts and I can only imagine the pain her family is experiencing right now. Please join us in expressing our unconditional Scottie Love and support for Emma and her family in the comments section below. So many of our Scots are gone too soon because of the evil "C." Think about it: how many dogs have you known that have battled canine cancer? And so many animals - Scots and mixed breeds alike - have stories similar to that of Emma's past. Thanks to her Scottie Mom and family, Emma found love and is living out the rest of her days with her humans by her side.

Emma soaking up the sun at home.

Emma celebrating her 8th barkday!

The Lap Dog

When Heather first entered our lives, she kept mostly to herself. She was super friendly to anyone she met and always volunteered to be a test subject for back scratches but she opted not to hang around longer than what it would take to score some treats and a few pats on the back. Then, as quickly as she came, Heather would set out for a corner in the far end of the room to rest her head upon her paws. Never completely out of sight but just far enough to satisfy her independent self, anyone who was seated nearby could see her sly (but shy!) Scottie eye keeping watch over all in the room.

For years, this has been Heather's signature move: to go somewhere not too close, but never too far. The behavior might seem a little bizarre to some but to rescue moms everywhere, it probably doesn't come as a shock. One can't help but wonder what it was that these pups went through to lead them to develop such habits. They say all it takes is love and patience to restore a dog's faith in humanity - and this is most certainly true - but even I found myself wondering just a few months ago if I'll ever get the chance to snuggle with my baby girl the way I get to daily with the mischievous Mr. K.

One night, Scottie Dad and I were watching TV. Heather and Mr. K were finishing up their dinner for two. After they each inspected the other's bowl to make sure no scraps were left behind, Heather and Mr. K trotted over to see what the humans were up to (and hoped one of us would have dessert ready in the form of a treat!). Instead of sitting at the edge of the couch as she normally does, Heather jumped up next to me and Mr. K. There, she settled in and I tried my best not to get too excited over the fact I had both Scottie dogs next to me for the first time. Alas, the bliss was short-lived and Heather returned to her spot at the other end of the couch not more than 5-10 minutes later.

And so this pattern continued every other night or so for quite some time. I dared not move a muscle every time she did this because I had waited too long to know what it would be like to cuddle with my girl and feared the slightest movement would send her away. Before long, she propped herself up in my lap as Mr. K habitually does. You could see the grave concern in Mr. K's eyes when he saw this occur (for he was sure he lost his spot forever) but he was kind enough to permit this temporary closeness as long as Heather eventually returned to her spot at the other end of the couch.

The more frequently Heather jumps up to be with me and the longer she stays each time, I'm fully encouraged that she has once again found a way to put the past behind her and enjoy life as we know it. I have no doubt she has felt comfortable with us in the Scottie House for quite some time but it is always rewarding to see her settle in at a deeper level with little moments like this. Is your dog a rescue? Tell us about his or her story and share any tips you've learned for fellow rescue moms in the comments section below! P.S. Guess who has been sitting in my lap while I write this post?

Happy Tails: Charlotte's Story

Charlotte, now seven years old.

Friends, meet Charlotte. Like so many of our fellow rescue Scots, she's got quite the Cinderella story to share! Charlotte is an alumna of Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil. (You might remember previously reading about the group's fabulous work in the post, "The Rescuers of Brazil.") Charlotte was found living with a poor family in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil who decided after a while they no longer wanted Charlotte as part of the family. Before they released her into the streets to be taken by anyone who would take her, Charlotte remained chained to a dirty floor day after day.

Soon, Charlotte's luck took a turn for the best. A man by the name Pablo went to a pet shop close to Charlotte's former home and heard her story. Fortunately, Pablo knew about Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil and the incredible work they do. He decided to go to the house where Charlotte used to live and subsequently, picked her up in his arms and carried her to Curitiba to be delivered to rescue coordinators there so she might have a chance at a better life.

From there, Charlotte met with Dr. Micheline Cavichiolo, a veterinarian with a great passion for all animals but a particular affinity for Scottish Terriers, who showed her all the Scottie Love a pup like Charlotte could ask for. Dr. Cavichiolo happens to serve as a board member for the Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil and opened up her clinic to Charlotte, making sure she got the best possible care including vaccines and treatment for her ears and teeth. She even got to run about the yard freely!

Not long after, Charlotte's Scottie Mom arrived. She had written to Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil just a few days beforehand, applying for an adoption in Curitiba. Charlotte's Scottie Mom had been formally interviewed, completed the rescue's questionnaire and finished all the other requirements that deemed her ready for adoption. And, as the story usually goes, it was Scottie Love at first sight! Charlotte soon went to her forever home but her story didn't end there. For in November 2014, Charlotte and her family welcomed a Westie sister to the family through rescue as well! 

Do you have a rescue story you want to share? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Rescue Spotlight: Alana

Meet Alana. This smiley, cuddle-loving and adventurous rescue Scottie is the epitome of Scottish Terrier resilience. Only five or six years old, Alana has had an incredibly rough life but that Scottie spark in her eyes won't be extinguished. Her previous owner turned her in to Paulding County Animal Control in Georgia where she waited in horrible conditions until Scottish Terrier Rescue of Tennessee stepped in to save the day. In many ways, Alana has put the past behind her. She's kicked some dirt on it and is spending her days like any good Scottie citizen: running security checks about the house, flopping on the couch, watching the windows and performing patrols of the neighborhood daily. 

Alana, who lives comfortably with my Heather Beather's own Foster Scottie Dad and his family (along with three other Scotties), is just waiting for her forever Scottie Mom or Dad to find her. She is eager to offer her Scottie Security and protection services to a loving family so that another spot can open up and her Foster Scottie Dad can save yet another Scottie life. Like Mr. K, Alana needs a home without C-A-T-S. She also prefers to eat alone without other dogs around as she fears they will steal her food. Currently, she rocks a Westie haircut but is just as gorgeous with a traditional Scottie grooming, too. Previously, Alana had some allergy or itchy skin issues which are now resolved and she has no problem letting you check our her furs whenever you want as she loves the attention! 

If you or anyone you know is interested in giving sweet Alana the loving home she deserves, visit the Scottish Terrier Rescue of Tennessee's website for more information on Alana and to fill out an application. You'll also find information on a few other pups needing homes, too.

The Rescuers of Brazil

Scottie Love can be felt all across the world. This much we know to be true from Project: International Scottie Love that introduced us to hundreds of Scotties living around the world and across the United States. Perhaps the one thing more exciting to learn about than the existence of Scottish Terriers around the world is the shared mission behind rescue efforts in various countries regardless of cultural, linguistic and societal differences. If world peace could be achieved through Scottie Love, something tells me we'd already be pretty darn close.

The first time Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil got together to find a forever home for a Scottie, they weren't an official organization with a set of formalized rules and code of ethics. What brought the members of the rescue group together was their mutual love and admiration for the beloved breed. They've come a long way from the first rescue efforts - consulting with established rescue groups here in the U.S. to set up standard practices and fundraising for their cause. In the past year alone, Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil has helped 23 of our Scottish Terrier friends!

Recently, the group embarked on one of their biggest rescue efforts yet. It was discovered that one male and five female Scottish Terriers were being given up by a breeder in São Paulo State. Afraid these Scotties would end up in other backyard breeders' hands, the members of Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil spent over a week negotiating with the breeder to get all six Scotties into their care. Finally, he agreed and two days later, Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil was there to save the day.

Brazil is a very large country and the members of Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil live throughout in various regions. This rescue initiative required significant travel (about 124 miles) and logistical planning as the group had never taken in six Scottish Terriers at once. Three people volunteered to foster and the others were housed at a pet care center. Two Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil members - Barbara Sanches and Pati Bianchi - made the long trek to rescue the six Scottie dogs and get them to their temporary foster homes as quickly as possible.

The dogs were covered in ticks and their bones were protruding. All of them were severely underweight. The wheaten male, only two years old or so, weighed just 5.2 kg (or 11 pounds). It was clear immediate medical attention was needed. The treatment for the ticks alone lasted over a week. Blood test results indicated that if Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil had not acted when they did, those little bearded pups surely would not have made it to see the day they had a forever home to call their own. The president of the rescue group, having been married the same weekend as this extraordinary rescue effort, even showed up with her new husband to assist in any way they could.

Fast forward a few months and all six Scottish Terriers are in good health, at the right weight and living happily with their new Scottie Moms or Dads. In fact, many of the "temporary" foster homes became forever homes! Three live in São Paulo, two are in Rio and one in Curitiba. Want to see more pictures of these cuties (named Liz, Joy, Noah, Paris, Luppy and Melody Hope)? Check out Scottish Terrier Rescue of Brazil's Facebook page and join us in thanking this incredible group for their efforts by showing them lots of Scottie Love and ArRRrOo's in the comment section below. 

5 things you should NEVER say to a Scottie Mom

Sometimes, things are better left unsaid. There are times, however, when people don't think before they speak or are just plain insensitive and go on to say something they simply should not. Below are five things I believe no Scottie Mom should ever be told. Sadly, I have heard every single one of these at least once in the years I've been a Scottie Mom. What are some of the most unusual things someone has told you about your Scottie that you wish you hadn't heard?

5. I know the black one is a Scottish Terrier but what kind of a dog is that one (points to the wheaten Scottie)? It looks so similar to your Scottie dog but surely, it is not one.

As Scottie Mom to Heather, I get this question all the time. It has become a somewhat laughable matter and doesn't usually bother me at this point. I just go into autopilot mode and explain that she is, in fact, a Scottie dog, but her color is rather rare. I go on to tell them there are black Scotties, brindle Scotties and wheaten Scotties - that Heather is considered a red wheaten Scottie. A look of bewilderment crosses the person's face and most of the time, they come back around to say how beautiful she is and that they had no idea. Some shake their head in disbelief, saying that she certainly is a mix. And that, my friends, is where they cross the line. Mixed breed or purebred, she is my sweet Heather Beather and I love her just the same so step aside, son!

4. Your dog is fat.

Heather hadn't been home for more than a day or two when people stopped by to meet her and that's when it all started. "Wow - she's overweight." Then, it was, "Man, she's BIG!" And my personal favorite: "Well, we know who would win if Mr. K ever put up a fight." Heather is the most lovable dog I've ever known and while she can bowl you over trying to soak up as much of the back scratching and head petting she can get, she is not fat. Heather came to me weighing 27 pounds. Today, she weighs an even 25 pounds and we're watching her to make sure she doesn't lose anymore weight because she is perfect the way she is. Calling a Scottie Mom's fur kid fat is no different than telling a mom her child is fat. It is rude and inconsiderate. Just don't say it.

3. I will never love your Scottie(s) or It's me or the Scottie(s).

Pack your bags, pal. Nothing and no one comes before Scottie Love and if you ask us to choose between you and the dog, I can tell you it won't be the dog I'll be giving up. He who loves a Scottie Mom must also love her Scottie dog(s). It is as plain and simple as that. Once you accept a Scottie dog into your life, it is a lifelong commitment until death do you part. I once dated a guy who thought people who posted pictures of their dogs on Facebook were "stupid." Needless to say, that relationship didn't go very far. Can you imagine what he'd say now with Heather and Mr. K stars of their very own Facebook page? It really doesn't matter. Heather and Mr. K are way cooler, anyway!

2. Your Scottie's a jerk!

Okay, let's be honest here. Scottish Terriers can be temperamental creatures who definitely possess an air of Scottie-tude about them and can come off as a little rough around the edges sometimes. Mr. K is no exception. However, just because he is selective with his friends (human and furry alike), does not mean he is a jerk. Like individual people, every Scottie is different. Mr. K is actually a sweetheart who protects his own like no other. He is proud and actually is quite sensitive - he just doesn't want everyone to know it. Gotta protect that Scottie pride!

1. You shouldn't rescue. Rescue Scotties come with all sorts of problems.

If you really want to get this Scottie Mom's blood boiling, tell me I shouldn't rescue another Scottie. No, I'm not talking about Scottie Dad not being ready to take in a third rescue yet. I'm talking about those who tell me that I should never rescue a Scottie...period. Not realizing both Heather and Mr. K are rescues, I let the foolish people give me their spiel about why one shouldn't rescue (they have mental problems, all sorts of bad behaviors, you just don't know what you're going to get...) before I look at them, smile politely and say, "It's funny you say that. Both of these Scotties are rescues." Then, I watch their jaws fall to the floor - as if that thought had not previously occurred to them beforehand. Someone actually said to me, "...but they're so well-behaved!" Yes. Heather and Mr. K are well-behaved but what makes you think other rescue Scotties are not? All it takes is a little patience and a lot of Scottie Love, people!

The Trick to Getting Another Scottie

Heather didn't find Scottie Dad's trick too funny. Mr. K thought it was hilarious!

Last night, Scottie Mom and Dad went out to dinner. Scottie Mom's a picky eater - nothing like Heather or Mr. K - so the fact they were trying a "new" restaurant was something of a big deal. They looked over the menu, made their selections and waited patiently for the food to come. When Scottie Dad's appetizer came (a plate full of oysters), he looked at Scottie Mom with a devilish grin and said, "If you eat one of those right now, I'll let you get TWO more Scotties."

Scottie Mom dropped her fork. Was he serious? Is Scottie Dad trying to play a mean trick? Will he really adopt two more Scotties if she does this? What are the odds that when she tries these oysters for the first time, she'll be allergic (since, in reality, she's allergic to just about everything)? Who was she kidding? Two more Scotties would totally be worth it! Scottie Mom reached for an oyster, knowing this was not going to be a pleasant experience, but recognizing this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that she could not pass up when suddenly, Scottie Dad says, "Oops! Time's up. You weren't quick enough. I said you had to eat one right now. You took too long."

Scottie Mom was furious. She hadn't taken long to make up her mind. In fact, she probably spent less than a minute questioning Scottie Dad's intentions before deciding she'd get that Scottie (or two!) even if this was just a mean joke. She protested. Scottie Dad said, "Hey - there will be other opportunities." Scottie Mom wasn't so sure. She has been hounding Scottie Dad to let her rescue two more Scotties or, at the very least, become a Foster Scottie Mom. For years, Scottie Dad has refused. Scottie Mom has tried all sorts of bargaining techniques...what if Heather and Mr. K got more likes than Boo, the world's cutest dog, on Facebook? How about if Scottie Dad got that pool table he's always wanted...would a Scottie or two be allowed to come live at The Scottie House then?

Sadly, the answer is always no but the hope that two more Scotties might find forever homes in The Scottie House with us has been revived. It's just a matter of time before Scottie Dad presents another challenge and it will be up to Scottie Mom to complete it in a timely manner, no questions asked so that two more lives can be saved (and Scottie Mom friends and fans can enjoy four times the silly Scottie stories and photos!). Tell us: what do you think is the trick to getting another Scottie? What kind of trick do you think Scottie Dad will pull next?

Love you like a Scottie!

Every day, I get to share the lives of Heather and Mr. K. And every day, I am inspired by the community of Scottie lovers that has formed around our little family. This Valentine's Day, I wanted to give back by sharing the spotlight with these incredible Scottie Love stories submitted by Scottie Moms and Dads just like you! Remember: as you celebrate your loved ones, make sure you tell them LYLAS (love you like a Scottie)...because there is no love greater than Scottie Love!

The Scottie Love Story of Collin

Sometimes it takes a heartbreak to find true love.

Our Scottie Collin (pictured above to the left) came to our home from Scottie Kingdom Rescue in Dallas, Texas. Collin had health issues but in the three years he lived with us, he experienced love, a safe home and lots of squirrels in the backyard. One day, Collin stopped eating. He wouldn't even take a snack or cheese and we knew something was wrong. A visit to the vet confirmed our worse fears. Organ failure and a multitude of other issues required the inevitable decision. It was one of the most difficult days that anyone could experience.

The following week, we decided to take a drive in the country. My other half was looking at his phone. I asked him what he was doing. He sheepishly said, "nothing." I grabbed his phone and a little wheaten Scottie face was on the screen. His name is Jameson. Jameson's family worked long hours and weren't able to give him the time and dedication he needed. The pain of losing Collin was still so fresh in my mind that it was difficult to comprehend the emotional investment of bringing in a new Scottie member of the family. That being said, the more I looked at the sweet little face, the more I fell in love.

Two weeks later, we met the family in West Texas and brought Jameson home. Jameson (pictured above to the right) had a special way and gentle spirit about him. He seemed to sense the recent void in our lives and did everything he could to fill the space. Jameson has brought laughter and joy to our home. We love him and he loves us. Scotties are special that way. Sometimes it takes a Scottie to teach us about unconditional love.

The Scottie Love Story of Susie

Susie, costar of the Susie and Sidebite blog, found herself in a puppy mill and was fortunate to be rescued by her forever family at just nine months old. The first eight months or so of her life were extremely difficult, having lived inside a cage for the majority of that time. When Susie was purchased from the puppy mill by her first owners, it wasn't long before she was dumped at a pound because she was not "sociable" enough for them.

The day Susie was scheduled to be put down at the pound, a rescue group discovered her and just a short time later, Susie's future Scottie Mom and Dad inquired about her and asked to take her home. Today, Susie is the queen of her Scottie House and enjoys life with her brother Sidebite and big sister Shadow. Susie's Scottie Mom describes the moral of the story best with these simple words she spoke to Susie when they first met: “You may be a mess, but love will fix you up!" To keep up with the adventures of Susie and Sidebite, be sure to check out their blog here.

The Honorary Scottie Love Story of Pierson

As you can see, Pierson from American Dog Blog is no Scottie but you bet he has a love story that will fill your heart with the good stuff! He lived as a stray in Pierson Park, Kansas City before his Border Collie Mix Mom found him. She came back to the park three days in a row to try to convince sweet Pierson to come home with her. Finally, on the third day, an older gentleman came and told her he had been feeding Pierson for about three weeks. Together Pierson's Mom and the older man coaxed Pierson to get closer to the car where the older man scooped Pierson up in his arms and sent him on the ride of his life...to his forever home! To read Pierson's full gotcha story, click here.