A life without dogs.

I've been feeling the blues lately. Without Cisca at home and with the knowledge that she's gravely sick, I'm starting to have a scenario of having a life without a dog. I really can't imagine what kind of life it would be. I was miserable and grew maddened without my Cassandra. To face life without your best friend is just plain harrowing. Should I love and adopt again? Do I have the time for a career and a dog?

Cisca took most of my time, and I thank her for that. However I'd like to go forward with my career. But when Cicsa get's back, I'll devote more than 100% of my time with her. I'm scared of seeing her convulse again. I really don't know if I should go ahead with life with a shelter dog. I feel so conflicted. Maybe I need more time to think this through. I know that this is a test from God. He's testing to see how committed I am to loving someone. Cisca, I won't give up on you.

Cisca update 10/31/2013

Cisca has to be in the clinic until Saturday. I wish she'd stay more just to be sure she's okay. I just learned that she's a really old dog, which is probably why her kidneys are failing. She still doesn't want to eat. I visited her earlier. Her eyes lit up when she saw me. My old girl's childlike fascination for the world continues. She appears to be strong. I just wish she'd eat.

I met new friends earlier a couple, +Aaron Mamiit  and +Jeng Mamiit. They were so nice to Cisca. They brought her a doggie cake and treats. I adore their four dogs. By the way I might be volunteering at the @Mandaluyong Animal Shelter, to feed the homeless and vulnerable dogs there. The people who run this place are admirable. They run it as purely volunteer and do not ask for cash at all. I'll post something about them soon.

Cisca's back at the vet, I'm blaming myself.

Last night Cisca convulsed. She was very sick when  she got home. I knew she should have stayed for days at the vet clinic. It was such a tragic event for me. I keep asking myself where I went wrong. I kept her healthy, fed her, bathed and give her meds. My family and other people will blame me. It will always be my fault. Everything I do is wrong. Even to rescue a shelter dog. They all wanted me to buy a Golden Retriever and they promised they would support me, but when it came to adopting a shelter dog, all those promises of support and financial help went away.

I'm in the middle of blaming myself and getting angry at others who didn't care enough for me this year. A lot of things were done to me by my family. It was very savage and cruel. Now they neglected me and tried to make me feel bad while I tried to make ends meet and support a loving and sweet creature like Cisca.

I'll be the goat, I'll be the villain in the end, like the way it's always been in my country., I live in a country where people like to pull each other down, to make themselves feel good, or to divert their inadequacies or incompetence to others.

All I can say is I tried my best. I really did try my best. I gave her more than what my world could offer. I have no regrets in adopting Cisca. I loved, cared and was 100% responsible to her solely. I'll remember her fondly. Maybe one day, when my heart has mended, I'll foster a dog or two who are about to get euthanized. Cisca may possibly be gone, but our story remains.

Cisca's back home

We got Cisca back home from the veterinary clinic. She still seems weak and picky about her food. We may just offer her the dry dog food that we have here until she caves in. I'm under pressure to return her, but I'm staying strong and committed to her. As doggie parents we want what's best for our pups and yet a part of us can't let go. I have to stick it with her no matter what. I'll get her to eat. We both deserve all the best love in the world.

Waking up without Cisca

I had a crummy but deep sleep last night. I woke up later than usual, 7 AM. There was nothing to wake up for. No bowls to be cleaned, food to be prepared and long walks. When I go downstairs, the terrace room will be empty. I won't see those puppy dog eyes peer at me, or those yelps asking to be walked or played with. This feels so different and we've only had a day removed from each other.

Later we'll be hearing from BSF of how Cisca is doing now. I really hope she comes back. The house is lonelier and lifeless without her. My life is meaningless too. I need to love and take care of someone like her. You can't find that in humans. To feel the touch for her tongue and the sensation of her play bites. It's all that I want back.

Empty

The house seems lifeless and dull without Cisca. I feel a void in the room where she usually is. Earlier I mistook the white chair inside for her. Everything seems so silent and solemn. I hope she's doing well in the veterinary clinic. She seemed to still be strong when we took her. I guess the timing of our adoption was just right. She could have died of the continued Ivermectin shots applied to her where she was being taken care of before. I just miss her.

I seem hollow inside. The joy and excitement has faded out. My responsibilities and the feeling of being loved  and needed are gone. I wish she was here and in perfect health. I feel numb right now. I need her love, her yelps to go out to relieve herself. All the joys and pains of puppy parenthood are gone. I still dream about her, that she's be back healthy, this week. Our dog food for her kidney maintenance is going to cost us 700 Philippine Pesos per two weeks. Ouch. I think it'll be for a lifetime. It's worth the price. I shouldn't have played "Come What May" from the Moulin Rouge soundtrack on youtube yesterday. I know God has a plan for us. I just have to trust him with whatever happens.

When saying goodbye comes...

Cisca seems gravely ill. She's currently confined at a veterinary clinic for kidney poisoning. We've only been together for a few weeks and she's changed so much in me. She's saved me from the madness of life. Last night, I decided to sneak her into my room and sleep. After hearing the possbility that she may not get back, I've resigned myself to grief. The Cisca Chronicles will still continue with my past experiences with dogs and promote adopting shelter dogs. She'll be a huge void to fill. If ever she'll come back with a clean bill of health (and load of food expenses for her kidney), I'd be the happiest man in the world. Please pray for her.

Please pray for Cisca. She's a bit under the weather

Cisca's been weak and hasn't had an appetite lately. She's been barfing a lot. Please pray she gets well. We're sending her to the vet tomorrow.

Cisca's officially my Forever best friend/ Our success story at caraphil.org

http://www.caraphil.org/mainsite/2013/10/28/francisca/

Cisca is officially in her forever home. CARA (Compassion and Responsibility for Animals) has posted our success story on their website. I found CARA out when I was looking to volunteer just to contribute to society months ago. I was supposed to go to another animal shleter but it was too far. The people I've befriended in CARA, Tanya Guerrero, Nancy Cu Unjieng and Vimla are very passionate about giving our unfortunate furry friends a 2nd chance. If you have the heart to help, heal or rescued an unfortunate creature do so here or at any of your nearby animal welfare centers.

Sleeping Beauty

Cisca's just had her bath this morning. She's had a very stressful day without me, while dating and buying her her new canned food. She was in a very playful mood when I returned. I was so exhausted and all. This morning, it seemed she was relaxed and content. I fed her the canned food again.

I tried exercising her for a while, but she wouldn't budge. I was running around and doing taichi. She just sat there doing nothing. I bathed her after 30 minutes. Now she's snoring on her bed.

Pitbulls are for loving and not fighting

http://helpsavethepitbulls.com/about/sample-page/

CARA Welfare Philippines (Compassion And Responsibility for Animals), one of the major Animal Welfare Groups
 in the Philippines, with the help of IRO (Island Rescue Organization), a Cebu-based Animal Welfare Group, made
 an unyielding agreement, after obtaining jurisdiction over the custody of the more than two hundred remaining 
Laguna Pit Bulls, to provide these dogs a second lease on life after their gruesome ordeal in the hands of a Korean 
dog-fighting syndicate. CARA and IRO were joined by individual Animal Welfare Advocates and Volunteer
Veterinarians in accomplishing this enormous project.

The rescue and rehabilitation for the remaining Laguna Pit Bulls have just begun. The unified effort and the meager resources of CARA are not enough to nurture all of the dogs back to health, provide them with their daily sustenance including the construction and maintenance of their new shelter. Our organization desperately need the support of 
the International Welfare Organizations and the Animal-Loving Community to help ensure the success of this noble project.

The Plight of the Laguna Pit Bulls

A few months ago an estimated 230 pit bulls were rescued from a dog-fighting syndicate operating in Laguna. This syndicate was operated by several Korean nationals who had already been previously arrested for the same offense 
in Cavite.

After their release in 2011, these Koreans quickly posted bail and proceeded to arrange for the relocation and 
importation of more dogs for their illegal and barbaric online betting business in Laguna. This is where they were 
busted again, this time with 230 dogs.

The 230 rescued Laguna pit bulls presented overwhelming challenges for the rescuers. Many of the animals were
found in very poor health. They were cruelly chained to posts set in filthy mud with nothing more than cut-out steel 
drums for shelter. They were terribly malnourished and wounded. Many were suffering from exposure to the
elements.

Despite medical care, many dogs perished or had to be euthanized to end their suffering. Today, 170 remain but 
we continue to medicate them daily because of their previous poor living conditions in Laguna.

CARA Welfare Philippines (www.caraphil.org), with the assistance of the Island Rescue Organization (IRO), 
has been taking care of these rescued pit bulls from the beginning. Through some loaned funds and volunteers 
who put in a lot of hard work, CARA was able to relocate the surviving pit bulls to a sanctuary in Batangas. 
It cost almost PhP 2 million just to set up the sanctuary: clearing the land, making a perimeter fence, building 
cages, etc.

We want these badly abused animals to survive. But we cannot do it alone. The projected cost of running the 
sanctuary is upwards of PhP 250,000 a month. A large portion of this budget is allotted for the dog food of the 170 survivors. To maintain their health, we feed them 4 large sacks of dog food a day, which we mix with rice and vegetables.

We are now responsible for their sustenance. We are also nursing the sick ones back to health and we are fully committed to the rehabilitation of these dogs. After their rehabilitation, we hope to find suitable individuals or 
families to adopt them.

We need your help. We draw no salaries from caring for these pit bulls; in fact, we have taken time off from our 
regular jobs to take care of them. They are the innocent victims of human cruelty, and while we want to work to prosecute those responsible for their abuse, our priority is to ensure their survival.

Come and volunteer to help with the pit bulls. Donate old towels, blankets, dog food, rice, vegetables, or medicines.
 Or you can help us secure funding for the food, medical care, and upkeep of these beautiful dogs.

Ken Roessler (CARA) why adopt a pet than buying.

Why Adopt A Pet Rather Than Buy?

– By Kenn Roessler (CARA)

If you are thinking about adding a new pet into your family you might want to consider adoption.  There are many good reasons to adopt rather than buy a pet. Here are a few of them:

• You’re getting more for your money if you get a mixed breed.  A mixed-breed animal is likely to live longer and cost less in vet bills than a pure breed. Many purebred dogs are prone to developing health problems ranging from breathing difficulties to hip dysplasia to an enlarged heart.

• A pet purchased from a pet store is a complete unknown. And, once you walk out of the store, you are on your own – most pet stores don’t provide any support if you have questions or problems with your new pet. When you adopt, especially from a rescue group, you know what you are getting because the group has a history on the animal. The rescue group will also help you through the familiarization period because they are invested in providing a good home for that animal.

• When you adopt a pet, you are saving a life. When you buy a pet, you not only deny a homeless pet a home, you are supporting an industry that thrives on shortchanging the welfare of animals. Puppy and kitten mills (which sell to pet stores) are in business to make a profit, so they churn out puppies and kittens as fast as they can. These animals are often in ill health and have problems like poor socialization skills due to lack of human companionship and genetic defects due to inbreeding.

• You get just as much love (if not more). An adopted pet is every bit as loving, intelligent and loyal as a purchased pet, even if you get an adult or older animal.

• When you adopt a pet from an area Humane Society, rescue organization or adoption facility, you free up space for another homeless, abandoned, or stray pets. Your actions, while they may seem small to you, are part of the ultimate answer to the great and growing problem of homeless animals in the Philippines.

If you’re interested in adopting a pet, and in turn saving an animal’s life, you can learn more from the local animal welfare groups CARA (Compassion And Welfare for Animals, www.caraphil.org) or PAWS (The Philippine Animal Welfare Society, www.paws.org.ph).  Both groups have been successfully rescuing, rehabilitating, and adopting out animals into loving homes for years.

Adopting a pet from CARA

Adopt a Pet

Is there a place in your heart and space in your home for one of our delightful rescued pets?

See our Adoption Gallery

Why adopt a pet rather than buy?

Did you know there are Health Benefits to owning pets?

CARA always has lots of cats and dogs of all ages, colours and personalities who are looking for loving homes. Most people are attracted to the young kittens, but please give an older cat a chance, here are 7 reasons why to adopt an older cat. Also don’t forget, cats don’t like to live alone – please consider a pair.

The Adoption Process

Cats and dogs that are at least 6 months of age or older are neutered before adoption. If you are interested in adopting an animal younger than 6 months, we require you to buy a coupon for an advance payment for the operation when they are mature. Obviously our whole objective is to stop over population, hence we are very careful who we allow to adopt unfixed animals.

A SERIOUS DECISION

Adopting an animal is a serious decision, for example a cat can live up to 23 years old and a dog up to 17. Therefore we want you to find the perfect match for your lifetime companion. The adoption team will provide you with background information about any animals you are interested in and arrange an appointment for you to meet your prospective new friend. However before committing to adopting an animal, please consider the questions below to make sure you are ready to be a pet owner.Are you ready to be a pet owner?

There are many factors to consider before taking that adoption step.

• What is your financial situation? Can you afford a pet? The adoption fee is P1200 for a dog and P800 for a cat, however that is only the start of the expenses. Vaccinations should be kept up to date every year; also unforeseen illness will require visits to the vets.

• Where do you live? If you rent, will your landlord let you keep a pet there? Are you planning on moving? If you are planning to move countries, please don’t adopt unless that animal can go with you so many animals are left homeless when the owners leave the country. Remember a pet is for life WOULD YOU LEAVE YOUR CHILD BEHIND?

• What is your family situation? Getting a pet is a decision that has to be made by, and agreed upon, by all members of the family.
• Are you willing to live the pet lifestyle? Kittens climbing curtains; puppies having little accidents. Your furniture being used as a scratching post while “Fluffy” learns where the real scratching post is! By the way, make sure you provide one, otherwise “Fluffy” has every excuse to use the kitchen table.
• Can you cope with your pet’s daily needs? Your pet will need you EVERY SINGLE DAY – for the rest of his/her life, which can be 15 years or more. Can you commit to this? We don’t want to put you off adopting a pet, we have so many that need homes, we just want to make sure you know exactly what you are taking on. Owning an animal is so rewarding, but knowing the facts beforehand is a must. Think carefully before adopting, don’t break an animals heart by abandoning them later.

Please read carefully our adoption polices, we want to ensure our rescued animals get to a loving and safe environment.

ADOPTION POLICIES

1. INDOOR ONLY – Cats adopted from CARA must be kept indoors with a litter tray (cleaned daily). Cats live much longer, safer lives indoors. Houses/condos must be fitted with fly screens to prevent the cat going outside. In specific cases, cats may be approved to go to an indoor/outdoor home.

2. CARA’s animals if over 6 months of age are spayed/neutered before adoption. If the chosen pet is under 6 months of age, therefore not yet neutered, a Spay/Neuter coupon must be purchased and a binding contract signed. The animal has to be brought to the CARA clinic to the prearranged appointment for neutering. Why Spay & Neuter?

3. The animal must be provided with fresh water at all times and good quality food 2x daily.

4. Veterinary treatment must be provided when necessary for the continual health and well being of the animal.

5. Dogs must NOT be tied up on tight leashes and must NOT be kept in cages. Dogs can live outdoors within a fenced secure area providing there is adequate shelter.

6. Dogs must not roam the street, they should be walked 2x daily in a responsible manner.

7. Cats must not be declawed for any reason, dogs must not be debarked.

8. It is highly recommended that upon adoption of your pet, he/she is taken to the vet for a general check-up. Vaccines and Heartworm prevention (for dogs) should be kept up to date yearly.

9. If for whatever reason you cannot keep the adopted animal, you must notify CARA and return the animal to CARA. The adoption fee will NOT be reimbursed.

10. The adoptive family agrees to give CARA visiting rights to ensure the terms of the adoption agreement are being followed. Failure to follow the agreement will result in the animal being reclaimed by CARA; the adoption fee will NOT be reimbursed.

11. Cats/Dogs adopted will be transported to their new home in a carrier approved by CARA.

12. The adoption fee is NOT refundable.

If you are 100% sure you are ready to be a pet owner and can meet our adoption policies, please read on.

1. Select an animal/s from our: Adoption Gallery
2. Download the adoption application form here CARA Adoption Form
3. Email us at adoption@caraphil.org , attach the completed adoption form. Alternatively you can call/text 0915 890 5535 or the number of the foster parent attached to each rescue animal. We will then arrange an appointment time for to you to visit your prospective new pet/s.
4. If both parties are satisfied the adoption can proceed.
5. We will make at least one follow up visit to ensure that everybody is happy.

CARA reserves the right to refuse adoption to any individual we feel is not suitable.

How to Foster A Pet from CARA

http://www.caraphil.org/mainsite/get-involved/foster-a-pet/

Because CARA does not run an animal shelter, rescued animals need to be placed in a good home with fosters that are interested in investing energy and time as well as possibly financial resources in rehabilitating the animal and preparing it for its forever home. It is important to understand the commitments that a foster makes, as most of the rescued animal have endured traumatic experiences and need people who are experienced in caring for animals to prepare them for adoption or even pamper them back to health.

The information below is designed to assist you during your time as a foster, give some basic information of what is expected of a foster and who to contact should you have further questions.

As a foster, your commitment usually lasts 3 months to 1 year during which CARA will add the animal to the adoption list and bring it to adoption events or meet ups with possible adoption families. During this time the foster family covers basic needs such as food, toys, vitamins. Depending on the financial situation of the foster, either CARA or the foster cover medical expenses. We have some fosters who are of simple means, but still have a lot of love and a good home to offer, and other fosters who have better financial situations and may have the means to pay for medical bills. It really is a case per case basis that should be discussed before the animal goes to the foster. Honesty between the foster and CARA is of great importance not only before but also throughout the fostering period – caring for the animal should be a team effort.

If you end up falling in love with your foster animal and decide to adopt permanently – great! Please let CARA know and we will happily take the foster animal off our adoption list after going through the adoption formalities with you.

 http://www.caraphil.org/mainsite/get-involved/foster-a-pet/fostering-policies/

Carefully read through and fill out the Foster Application Form as well as the Fostering Policies.

Please don’t ever hesitate to voice any concerns or questions to your CARA contact person.

 

A few factors to consider before you decide to foster:

• What is your financial situation? Can you afford to foster a pet? If you have limited financial resources please let us know how much you are able to spend so we may allocate additional funds and find the right pet for you.

• Where do you live? If you rent, will your landlord let you keep a pet there? Are you planning on moving? If you are planning to move countries, when will this happen? Please give us at least 3 months prior notice to be able to find a new foster.

• What is your family situation? Getting a foster pet is a decision that has to be made by, and agreed upon, all members of the family.

• Are you willing to live the “pet lifestyle”? Consider fostering an adult pet that already knows more about how to behave in a human household if you don’t want to deal with puppy or kitten playfulness and possible minor challenges. Please speak to CARA in advance so we can find you the right pet to foster.

• If you are taking on a Canine are you willing and able to train them? Will you need assistance with this?

We don’t want to put you off fostering a pet, we have so many that need good homes, we just want to make sure you know exactly what you are taking on. Fostering an animal is very rewarding, but knowing the facts beforehand and preparing accordingly is a must.

How to prepare your home for a foster pet:

Canines:

1. Two food bowls

2. A dog “bed”

3. Collar & leash

4. Toys suitable for dogs

5. Good quality food

6. Brush & shampoo if self – grooming (make sure you buy the right one depending on the animal’s fur). If you wish to have your dog professionally groomed ensure you do so frequently – depending on the dog’s fur.

7. Sufficient space for the dog to get some exercise inside the home, as well as an outside environment where the dog can be walked 2x a day leashed.

Felines:

1. Two food bowls

2. Cat bed or designated place to rest.

3. Scratch post

4. Litter tray with scooper

5. Cat litter

6. Toys

7. Good quality food

8. Brush & shampoo if self – grooming (make sure you buy the right one depending on the animal’s fur). If you wish to have your cat professionally groomed ensure you do so frequently – depending on its fur.

9. Sufficient space inside your home for the cat to get some exercise.

Some resources for your reference:

Pet shops:

Doggieland

148 San Francisco St. Brgy Plainview

Mandaluyong City

Tel: (02) 5327021

Bow & Wow

5/L Shangri-La Plaza,

Mandaluyong City

Tel: (02) 6383372

Bow & Wow

Lower Ground Floor Greenbelt 5,

Makati City

(02) 5013680

http://www.bowandwow.com.ph/#/Our-Stores

For more shops you may also have a look at:

http://www.spot.ph/shopping/46939/top-10-pet-friendly-spots-in-metro- manila/1

Veterinary clinics :

VETS IN PRACTICE

#63 Maysilo Circle

Plainview

Mandaluyong City

(Just across Tapa King, right at the corner of Boni Avenue extension; around the Mandaluyong City Hall)

Tel: 
(02) 5311581 – 83

Dr. Riza or Dr. Dan

102a Alabang Business Tower

Madrigal Business Park

Alabang

Muntinlupa

Tel: (02) 8467730 / 8428379

Dr. Lester Lopez

BSF Animal Clinic

Unit 1E, Kensington Place

1st Ave, Bonifacio Global City

Taguig City

Tel: (02) 8223660

http://beterinaryo.com/

Dr. Fara or Dr. Chico

ACS

Tiendesitas, Pasig City

Tel: (02) 6356895

Dr. Siday

• Dog Boarding facilities:

In case you need to temporarily board your foster animal.

VIP Pet Hotel and Wellness Center

(Next to VIP clinic, see above)

Tel: (02) 4707978, – 7478, – 7043

Pernilla Harboe

(Near the airport)

Tel: (02) 8525148, 0916 6172663

Your CARA contacts:

If you have questions, concerns or your foster animal needs medical attention please contact us!

Tanya Guerrero: guerrerotanya@gmail.com,

Tel: 0916 3739812

Please read fostering polices carefully, we want to ensure our rescued animals go to a loving and safe environment.

1. CATS: INDOOR ONLY – fostered cats must be kept indoors with a litter tray. Houses/condos must be fitted with fly screens to prevent the cat going outside or falling out the window. In specific cases, cats may be approved to go to an Indoor/outdoor home, please consult with CARA beforehand.

2. The animal must be provided with fresh water at all times and good quality food 2x daily. Please try to stick to one type of cat / dog food to keep your foster pet healthy.

3. Fosters will be financially responsible for providing basic necessities such as food, toys, grooming, litter etc.

4. Veterinary treatment and medicine must be provided when necessary for the continual health and well being of the animal. If the foster is not able to shoulder the medical expenses CARA will raise money from donations. All major medical treatment must be discussed with your CARA contact person beforehand.

5. Dogs must NOT be tied up on tight leashes and must NOT be kept in cages. Dogs can live outdoors within a fenced secure area providing there is adequate shelter.

6. Dogs must not roam the street; they should be walked 2x daily in a responsible manner.

7. Cats must not be de – clawed for any reason, dogs must not be debarked.

8. Our animals may or may not be vaccinated before going to foster homes, depending on their health condition. Before receiving your foster, please make sure you are briefed by CARA on the animal’s medical record, and whether he or she will need to be vaccinated, de-wormed or spay/neutered, then decide on a schedule.

9. If for whatever reason you cannot keep the fostered animal, you must notify CARA and return the animal to CARA with as much advance notice as possible.

10. The fostering family agrees to give CARA visiting rights to ensure the terms of the fostering agreement are being followed. Failure to follow the agreement will result in the animal being reclaimed by CARA.

11. The foster have the option of becoming a CARA member, should they wish to volunteer. The membership fee of Php1,000 in the first year and Php700 to renew the following year.

12. A dog has to be socialized and trained by its foster to prepare it sufficiently for adoption – better trained dogs will find it easier to find a forever home. If the foster is not able to train an alternative solution should be discussed with CARA.

13. In case the foster needs to go out of town he / she shall ensure the animal is being cared for in their own home or boarded at a specialized, CARA approved, establishment. Cats may be boarded at the CARA clinic for a limited period of time subject to prior arrangements.

CARA reserves the right to refuse fostering to any individual we feel is not suitable.

Compassion and Responsibility for Animals/ How you can save and be saved by a dog and/or kitten

http://www.caraphil.org/mainsite/

Note: CARA clinic location and contact information have changed. Contact Us

CARA was formed in the year 2000 by a dedicated group of animal lovers determined to help the plight of animals in the Philippines. We are a non-profit, non-government organization that receives no government funding; we rely solely on private donations.

Mission and Vision

• Reduce pet overpopulation through our low cost spay/neuter clinic
• To promote Trap/Neuter/Return
• Provide veterinary consultations for low income pet owners/li>
• Educate citizens, organizations & barangays about animal welfare and the rights of animals
• Promote compassion for animals and responsible pet ownership
• Prevent cruelty and abuse to animals
• Provide caring and responsible homes for our members rescues through our adoption program

CARA Clinic
2365, Singalong St. Malate
353-3381/0910-7297026
caraclinic@gmail.com
View Larger Map

For drop offs and for people with drivers please use the entrance on Singalong St.
Limited parking will be available near Maligaya St. entrance.

Directions from Buendia to Front Entrance

Please note: There is no parking at the front entrance.
Turn right onto Bautista St., left onto Pablo Ocampo St., right onto Arellano St., left onto Estrada St., right onto Singalong St. — CARA clinic is on the left side

We welcome correspondence from fellow animal lovers and animal welfare supporters; we value your comments and suggestions. We will endeavor to answer all your inquires within 2-3 working days.

Please contact the appropriate department

Adoption: adoption@caraphil.org

Sponsorship: sponsorship@caraphil.org

Membership: membership@caraphil.org

Media:

CARA clinic:  caraclinic@gmail.com / 02 353-3381 / 09107297026

*Adoptions: Please note; we not have a shelter so unfortunately cannot take animals in; the animals we have up for adoption are rescued by our members and reside in their own houses.

WHERE TO REPORT CRUELTY CASES

There is an  Animal Welfare Act of 1998 in Philippines that ‘should’ protect animals from cruelty and abuse. If you witness any cases go immediately to the nearest police precinct to report the incident, bring a policeman with you to the scene – they have to help you by law! Don’t forget to take photographic evidence.

Feeding problem solved

After days of agonizing over Cisca's lack of an appetite, I had to research for creative ways to get her to eat. She hated kibbles, liked purely human food and sometimes skipped meals despite us begging and improvising. Our little food connoisseur wouldn't eat anything repeatedly and the food was sometimes left in the bowl. We were agonizing over buying her another dry dog food formula, but doubted it would work.

Finally, after intensive research, we found that her type likes canned dog food. We now try to feed her different varieties per meal, saving some amounts in the fridge. We may try mixing them up, too. I'm now looking for Royal Canin's canned dog food for skin and fur. Hopefully it's available in our country. So far, we've bought Alpo. I was searching all afternoon to early night for a pet supplies store in the place I was meeting someone. I guess my memories lapsed.

Now Cisca is a full and satisfied dog.

Kudos to @Rachel de Jong for the advice.

Barfing problems and family issues.

Last night and this early morning Cisca's been barfing a lot. I really don't know if it's the food or something else. I'll be consulting the doctor. Maybe it's time I got her Royal Canin dog food. She hates Vitality dog food and I don't want to gamble on Eukanuba which is really pricey, only for her to ignore it. I think I'm committing to Royal Canin by next next week. I'm saving up for her visit to the vet next month.

This is like having a child. You worry about their well being and devote most of your time seeing that they get the best out of life. My family has turned cold towards me when I decided to adopt a stray like Cisca, instead of a pure bred Golden Retriever puppy. They decided to withhold support from me, leaving me solely with dog responsibility, which is okay, except when they begin to restrict her and go paranoid, like what my Mom does with me. I really think my mom should take psychiatric medication for paranoid personality disorder.

I feel a sense of freedom whenever I am responsible for Cisca. I feel like the man that I should be, and not a kid
trapped in a box, treated like a kid and being criticized for everything. It's like we live in a little paradise, our own  world where nothing else matters but each other.

Bathing Cisca

Treating Cisca's skin problems is a delicate process. Every two days I give her oral medication, to grow back her skin. She's been cooperative so far. I usually give it before breakfast. It smells and kinda tastes like fish oil. (I tried licking it off my fingers once). It's kinda like toothpaste but liquid.

I also bathe Cisca around every 3 days. This is to kill the mites from her skin. I use a special shampoo for her skin. It's anti-fungal and anti-bacterial. We have to use a sponge and concentrate on the infected areas. The shampoo emphasizes the need to lather Cisca's paws, tail and lips. After that, I lather the whole body, applying the shampoo at several points of the body. I wait for ten minutes for the shampoo to enter her skin. Then I rinse her off.

Cisca loves the feeling of being bathed. She quickly runs around the yard,asking for play time.

Taking care of a dog with skin problems is a huge responsibility. Most of those dogs with the same problems are likely Jack Russell Terriers. Cisca is half Jack Russell..
Almost every aspect, to the diet is monitored to prevent her skin from getting worse. I think she's recovering. We're having her skin checked up at the veterinarian next month.

I love being responsible for my dog

Remembering Cassandra, my first love.

When I decided on getting a dog, after my beloved Cassandra passed away, I wanted my need to be loved to be met. Cassandra, a Golden Retriever would often be the one to approach and snuggle with me. She had a quirky human side to her. We adopted her during the early years of my mental illness. I felt loved and taken care of. Unfortunately, we took her for granted. we just waited for her to approach us for attention or vice versa. We let the maid take care of her needs. My family isn't a responsible dog owning family (which is why I have to be hands on with Cisca, rather than rely on others.

Cassandra was a bundle of joy to us. I remember the crazy antics that she'd pull off just to get our attention. She liked catching the ball, but she wouldn't give it back; growling at us with the ball in her mouth. She liked being the center of attention and was a very people person.

She was scared of fireworks and the noises it caused. Cassandra would snuggle at us, hide in  the room, where Cisca is now. and whine. She was a very intelligent dog who could pick up tricks very easily. I could swear she had the human capacity of thinking,

Unfortunately, last year we lost her to kidney failure. She put up quite a fight then. She would still approach us and never lost her enthusiasm for life. I decided to get a male Golden Retrever puppy to fill her place and add nostaligia in my life. I was a fool. Cassandra will always be the only Cassandra. I know she's ahppy for Cisca and me. She knows Cisca's more than filling her role and is healing me.

I miss you my little puppy whuppy pumpkin whumpkin. We'll see each other one day in heaven, where you, Cisca and I will play foirever in the fields. Goodbye.

feeding problems 2

Feeding Cisca this morning was exhausting. I tried 3 dishes, well prepared. She seems to like variety food. Perhaps we should rotate her meals. I've been giving hat I get stressed. I just worry about her vitamins, as prescribed by the vet. I miss her energetic self. If only there was a way for me to perk her up.

I tried all the safe human food chicken liver and rice, eggs and peanut butter. She ate a few loaves of bread. I finally got her eating with ground beef. It's not my precious little pumpkin dog. Rescue animals are harder to take care of. due tot he trauma they've experienced. I guess being alone on the streets, picking up scraps developed her taste buds. I'm a 100% committed to her. I'll find a way.

Up early to walk the doggie

I woke up around 4:20am. The first thing I did was head to Cisca. I wanted to see how she was. She immediately demanded a walk. I had a hard time getting her to poop. I was half awake at most. Being a full time doggy parent can be stressful and fulfilling. I had her drink her new vitamins. I'm worried because she hasn't been eating at all. Even her favorite, chicken liver hasn't enticed her to eat. Perhaps I should try something new\.

Watching an Angel Sleep

It's a wonderful feeling to see the one you care about sleep so serenely. It's like a parent, watching over an infant as she rests after hours of crying. My little "Ishbu" (derived from the dog Wishbone, and my other nickname for Cisca) hasn't rested like this for a long time. She's been up and alert since we welcomed her into our home.

This is what every parent or pet owner wants for his/her children. To see them secure. I love seeing Cisca sleep. It invokes an inner peace in me. How I miss being a child without worries. I have trouble sleeping at night because of my schizoaffective disorder. I'm glad she doesn't suffer the way I do. Sleep my dear angel. May we wake up and play the next day.

Feeding problems

Cisca's appetite seems slow these days. She hasn't eaten her dog food. We had too resort to feeding her chicken liver, as allowed by our vet. Today, she's been moping around her bed. Perhaps all the excess energy has been used up. I'll be giving her the vitamins Dr Fara suggested to us. I miss her old rambunctious side. Perhaps more outdoor play will stimulate her. Today was really hot. I didn't want to expose her sensitive skin. *Sigh!* I love being a puppy parent.

The Guardian of my Being

Months ago, my sister bought a copy of a book written by Eckhart Tolle and drawn by Patrick McDonnel (Mutts). I was so emotionally and spiritually shattered then. I tried to read the book in a cafe, hoping a pretty girl would notice. I didn't have enough cash for a frappe, so I bought mineral water instead. I started reading the book assuming later on, some pretty face would notice, but instead the eloquence of Eckhart Tolle's words caught me. I lost my fears for a period of time and became confident. The book was titled The Guardians of Being. It's about the role dogs and cats play in protecting the inner being of their owners. Of course my fears returned, because all I had was the words.

I dreamed of having a dog again. A Golden Retriever like my last dog, Cassandra. I had decided to get a male puppy and name him Buddy. Eventually, my interests turned to other breeds like the Shiba Inu and the Siberian Husky. I was only thinking of what would make me happy, momentarily at most.

When I got Cisca, I thought she'd be a big burden to me, my budget and my dating plans. You know sometimes to feel good, you have to put the needs of others ahead of you. Cisca is a very needy dog. Her physical vulnerability and her emotional wants are things I make a priority. In caring for her, I forget my problems. Whenever I'm in a state of painful reverie, due to my illness, she pulls me back to reality by telling me, "I need you, stop thinking". And she knows how to love back. She more than loves unconditionally, but also passionately. She never displays this to anyone else but me. I think sh views me more than her master, but her mate, as a replacement to her former love, Pancho. I feel that my years long prayers of being saved from my pain  are being answered. I've found the guardian of my being.

Thankful and Lucky

Last week, we had our routine check up with our Vet Dr. Fara. Everything seemed to go wrong. The door at  the back of the car, where Cisca and I were laying around wasn't properly shut. (We had made sure it was close by repeatedly slamming and locking it down). The rain made it hard for me and Cisca to go to our other chores i.e. paying for adoption fees and the resulting traffic. We were stuck for about 30 minutes in the highway when the door 's lock malfunctioned. I instinctively moved Cisca to the middle seats, where she could not try to jump over.

Our check up at BSF (Beterinaryo sa Fort), went smoothly. The results of her skin tests wee good. She didn't have mange, and hedr skin problems were treatable/curable. I shelled out almost all the cash I had saved up for months to pay for the medicine. It felt really good doing so (and I've enough money for the next check up and the meds, with the money I'll save this month).

Cisca was scared at first while laying in the floor below the middle chairs. To comfort her, I lay beside her and she snuggled with me. We were close home, when suddenly the car broke down, in the middle of the road. My driver, Jun and I had to push the car, while Cisca was inside. I felt kinda threatened when a traffic officer was asking money from us. I kept my cool, trusting we'd get through this. Our uncle's car soon arrived and pulled us back home.

I just feel thankful Cisca's safe. I think she kept me from going crazy with the situation. I'm thankful even now, to have her safe with me.

How to get an energetic dog rested.

People have problems with energetic dogs. These dogs tend to bark a lot, bite and destroy furniture. I'm kinda like those kinds of dogs to. I get uneasy and irritated without an outlet for my energy and creativity. Cisca's been a small puff of energy. She hardly can last a day without lots of frenetic playtime, lot's of long walks and exploration. I usually schedule my whole day around here, while I work as a writer.

Our activities involve play biting and chasing, running, having her explore places and simple walks. For some reason she just stops while she's on the leash. Sometimes, she'd rather be dragged, which I prefer not to do. She likes biting her durable doggie bed when excited and humps on me. I try to keep her moving as much as possible when she feels like it, till she burns out. Cisca loves play wrestling in a submissive position. She's like the Royce Gracie (Mixed Martial Arts fighter) of love. Sometimes it feels werd that she's just resting. This dog needs a lot of love, attention and play time. I'm more than happy to oblige.

Cisca the Master of the Puppy Dog Eyes Discipline

Crossing a street full of dogs.

I went out for a walk,yesterday. I needed to take time off and rest from puppy raising. On my way back home, I kept encountering stray dogs, kept in tight leashes, on carts. Others I saw, balding and malnourished. I kept thinking that this was how Cisca's life was before. It both kinda makes us thankful we aren't in tat situation. Cisca's the ultimate survivor. That's why she appreciates everything here with me and loves me so much.

Cisca's first days

As we took Cisca from her foster home, she was scared and uneasy with me. The ride to our place must have been harrowing to her. She would never lie down, and kept sniffing at the car door. By the time we got home, she kept wanting to walk around, never wanting to rest for hours. Cisca would keep staring at the door, as if she wanted to go away. Cisca wasn't shaking but she certainly was panicking inside. I had a hard time leaving her room during the first days. She would yelp and cry. She lost her appetite on dog food. It was so stressful for me, coupled with my hypomania. My dog walks with her were difficult as my mind would drift away into my problems. Her energy level was so high, she still iks the energizer bunny. I had a hard time on my social life.

As I felt down and close to giving up. she approach me and touch her nose on my lips. Whenever I was possessed by my problems, she'd yelp for playtime or bite my fingers hard. Being responsible to someone else than me has been very therapeutic. I'm sacrificing a lot of my finances for her and it feels great. And the love she gives back is tremendous. On e thing we both share is that we've both been survivors in life. Her time alone, hungry and mangy on the streets, and me and the tragic events of these past years. God must have sent her like an angel.