Angel City Pit Bulls - Foster

Why I'm the Dog for You! by Baxter

Becca — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 23:50:10 +0000

Wednesday, February 18, 2015 - 3:50pm

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Hey! It’s me, Baxter! I was thinking about it the other day, and I was like, “Wait, how come I’m not adopted?” Not to brag, but pretty much all anyone ever does is give me compliments and tell me how much they love me. So I thought for anyone who hasn’t had the pleasure of meeting me yet, I’d give you the run down on my most excellent qualities.

First of all, I’m pretty much down for whatever you had planned for my morning exercise. Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood, a hike on the trails where I can get my sniffies on, or a nice jog, I’m your guy. And good news: I’m not high maintenance with my exercise needs. I can keep up with you, no problem, but then I’ll probably use my free time to nap, if you don’t mind. Car ride? Count me in. I’ll look out the window, have a few sniffs, and then settle down for the ride. I’m just happy to be invited.

Oh yeah, I should tell you my foster mom says I’m inexplicably soft. She wants to know my secret, but I won’t tell her! You’ll just have to pet me to find out for yourself. That won’t be hard, because I love to snuggle. I’m practically a professional. I can find the perfect spot, get myself super comfy, and fall asleep next to you (or on you, please!) in moments.

When I’m awake from my nap, I make the perfect house companion. I’ve spent a lot of time earning my freedom in my foster homes and I’ve got this house thing pretty much down pat. I don’t have time for all that puppy nonsense of chewing on shoes and knocking over trash cans—I’m happy to just curl up on my dog bed and assist you from a more comfortable position. If you’re looking for a more chill and mature dog to hang with you, that’s me for sure.

Kids, you ask? I’m practically a member of the Babysitter’s Club. Okay, I can’t actually babysit—I’m a dog--but I think kids are fun and I like to wag my tail when they’re around! I even learned “Shake” because my kid neighbors wanted me to—that’s dedication, if you ask me.

Here’s me with my bracelet earring that my 7 year old friend let me wear. Looks good, right?

And cats, well, I could give a hoot if my two feline foster siblings are around or not. I met them slowly so that we could all get used to each other, and I think as long as my new family did the same and made sure everyone (ahem, cats) respected everyone else’s space (ahem, mine), I’d be just fine having a confident kitty as a housemate. Here we all are doing a contemporary dance routine for Foster Mom.

See what I mean? I’m the full package. Plus, every weekend I go to Angel City’s Movement Class, which helps me work on focusing on my handler while I’m around other dogs so that our walks and hikes can be more fun. Class is free and I love learning there, so I’d love to keep going with you!

Well, what else could I possibly say? Interested yet? Email my friends at adopt@angelcitypits.org to set up a meet and greet so you can see for yourself what a catch I am!

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Gwennie's Adventure in the Angeles National Forest

Becca — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 17:55:35 +0000

Tuesday, October 21, 2014 - 10:55am

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Gwennie

Angeles National Forest

hike

Foster

Adopt

Being an Angel City foster dog isn’t all “sits” and “downs”—our foster dogs get to have a lot of fun, too! We caught up with foster dog Gwennie after a fun morning in the Angeles National Forest to get her recap of the day.

When my foster mom told me we were going to the forest, this was my reaction: Oh my dog!

It was hard for me to wake up early (to be beautiful like me, one needs lots of beauty rest) but I trusted my foster mom when she said this would be worth it! I slept in the car the whole way there. We got our Adventure Pass and hit the trail.

As soon as we started, I realized we hit the jackpot—did you know how many good smells there are to sniff in the forest? I’ve never smelled anything like it! It was so much different from the neighborhood where I usually do my smells.

We got to the waterfall, which was just a trickle, but that meant I got to get really close! Cheese!

Then we rested for a minute to recharge for the trip back. I got up on this rock so that I’d be more on smooch-level.

On the way back, I saw some really cool forest squirrels. It was hard getting up the final hill at the end of the trail, but I made it and rested at this sign.

Because I was such a good girl, I got to go out for a hot dog after! That might have been my favorite part.

My foster mom said we hiked about 3 miles, which I think is quite enough for one day! I think I’ll spend the rest of the day sleeping. Next time, I told my foster mom, let’s just go out for hot dogs and skip the hike!

If you’re interested in adopting Gwennie, please email adopt@angelcitypits.org.

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Angel City’s Steve and Sabrina are on Kombucha Dog Labels

Becca — Fri, 10 Oct 2014 04:30:38 +0000

Thursday, October 9, 2014 - 9:30pm

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kombucha dog

Foster

steve

We are so excited to announce that starting this Friday, October 10th, you can see Angel City foster dogs Steve and Sabrina on Kombucha Dog labels across Southern California.

Kombucha Dog is a Los Angeles based kombucha brewery, focused on making raw, undiluted, handcrafted kombucha with all organic ingredients. Even better, each Kombucha Dog bottle features a local, adoptable foster dog from various rescue organizations.

Kombucha Dog offered us the opportunity to do a photoshoot with our foster dogs, and we were all ears. When it was time for Kombucha Dog to shoot new labels, we told the dogs to get ready for their close ups and headed down to the KDog studios.

Sabrina will be the poster girl for the ginger flavor, which will hit stores Friday, October 10th.

Steve will be on the blueberry bottle, which is fitting since blueberries are his favorite healthy snack. You can find him in stores next Friday, October 17.

We’re excited to try them both!

To find out where you can pick up a bottle, check out the store locator. While Sabrina has found her forever family since the photo shoot, Steve is still patiently waiting for his.

Learn more about this superstar here, and email adopt@angelcitypits.org if you’re interested in meeting him.

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A Day in the Life of Lindsey

Anonymous — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 04:28:34 +0000

Monday, September 22, 2014 - 9:28pm

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Adopt

Foster

lindsey

What's it like being an Angel City foster dog? We put available foster dog Lindsey to work to show her adoring fans what she's up to during the day from her own perspective.

First stop: Runyon Canyon for a morning hike. Just up the street from Foster Mom's house, it has some of the coolest sniffs around. I love hanging out with my friends and getting my exercise.

Before I head back home, I get some snuggles in. Not to brag, but everyone says I'm an expert snuggler and give really good kisses.

Then it's back to my beloved crate to eat breakfast. After, I get some well-earned time to hang out and practice my good behavior in the house. Can a girl get some jerky with these ears?

But honestly, all these morning activities get me pretty sleepy.

After my nap, I like to hang out with my foster friends in the yard. I love a good play session! Here's me and my friend Gertie. We like to call ourselves "Gerdsey." "Lintie" just didn't sound as good.

Now I need a break from playing to lounge in the yard. You could say I have a flexible energy level. I like to do tons of stuff (I am only one year old, after all!), but I appreciate the finer points of relaxing, too!

Before dinner, I like to take a stroll around the neighborhood and pose with some of the local street art.

Now I'm tired! Someone tell my foster mom to turn off the lights!

If you are interested in adopting Lindsey, please email adopt@angelcitypits.org.

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Foster Friday Photo Blog: Baby Blue and Baby Rose

jenny — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 15:10:38 +0000

Friday, July 27, 2012 - 8:10am

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Baby Blue and Baby Rose are about 7 weeks old and totally precious.

They are available and will be vaccinated and spayed/neutered before adoption.

Please email adopt@angelcitypits.org
if you want to adopt one of these adorable little peanuts.

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Foster Friday Photo Blog: Grace

jenny — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 16:55:45 +0000

Friday, July 6, 2012 - 9:55am

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Grace is ready to go to her forever home. Come meet her tonight at the NoHo Dine-Out Friday Night Adoption Event or Sunday at our Adoption Event in the Park!

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Foster Friday: Dove-a-licious

jenny — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 15:42:27 +0000

Friday, June 29, 2012 - 8:42am

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When I think about Dove, I think words like "success", "resilient", and "inspiring". These are nice words to think but even better to live, and thanks to Dove, I have been living these words for the past four months. Dove came into my house on his belly, with his tail tucked all the way under and his eyes firmly on the ground. When I looked at him for too long he would shake; when I talked to him he would curl into a ball. He exhibited all the signs of abuse. These days Dove wags his tail every time I talk to him, runs to the door when my husband comes home, and is just starting to understand the love of belly rubs.

Dove tackles each new challenge with determination. You can actually see him preparing himself to try something scary, refusing to give up. When he finally mastered the dog door he spent the entire evening running in and out, in and out - so happy with his new skill! I find it kind of funny to say about a dog, but he has the most courageous spirit I have ever met.

Other than a lot of patience, Dove comes along with some very specific requirements for any prospective family. While he still has some trust issues with new humans, he views all dogs (and even our cat) as his best friend. He needs another dog to lead the way in most everything he tackles. He also needs canines for playtime – you have never seen a dog play with such happy abandon! I am not sure if he would do well living with young children, however, as his ideal home would come without loud noises, sudden movements, or high-volume voices.

Dove also requires a lot of snuggling. Be prepared to administer hugs, back scratches, kisses, and belly rubs. The more confidence he gets, the more affectionate as well. Who knew such a timid boy had so much love to give? Dove is about eighteen months old, 50 pounds, microchipped, crate-trained, house-trained and is learning his commands at Turnaround Training's puppy class. He will need to continue obedience class once he is adopted as well, to fully master his commands.

There is an astonishing amount of joy that comes from being a part of Dove’s world and watching him “unfold”. I like to think I am helping Dove to be a better dog; the reality is he is helping me to be a better person. He is the most amazing success story. Are you ready to be part of it?

Elizabeth
Dove’s Foster Mom

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Pet Safety Tips for July 4th

jenny — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 21:13:18 +0000

Tuesday, June 26, 2012 - 2:13pm

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We humans love to celebrate Independence Day with BBQ's, fireworks, and fun - but our canine friends are not as fond of the loud noises and hullabaloo. We want you to enjoy yourself while also keeping your pets safe and comfortable. Read here for some tips on pet safety for your July 4th festivities.

License and Microchip Your Pet

We highly suggest pets be up to date on their registration and microchip. If you have moved recently or changed your phone number don’t forget to update this information. Also some companies will allow you to put a secondary phone number on your account, which we recommend. The more information listed the better the chance you will be reconnected with your lost pet.

Please ensure that your dog is wearing his or her dog tag with your contact information, as well as his or her license tag. Many dogs do get loose on the 4th of July due to fear from the loud noises and commotion, and having these tracking devices can be a saving grace for your family.

You can contact any of the L.A. Animal Services Shelters and schedule an appointment to have your pet microchipped. The cost is $25 per animal.

Keep Pets Indoors

To ensure your pets are safe and sound, keep them inside and make sure if you do take them out for a break that you supervise them carefully. If you are going out, keep your pets crated or in an enclosed bedroom so they are secure. Even if you decide to hang at home, your pets may still be affected by loud noise levels, so be aware of open windows, as startled dogs may look for an escape route.

Create a Pleasant Environment

Whether you are at home with your pets, or out at a BBQ, you should create a familiar and calm environment for them. Surround them with their favorite toys and other familiar objects. We recommend filling a Kong with frozen peanut butter or giving them a yummy bone to keep them focused and occupied; the chewing can also help relieve stress. We also suggest playing some soft, soothing music at a low volume. There is even music specifically designed for keeping dogs calm, which you can find out more about by visiting throughadogsear.com. White noise, such as a sound machine or a fan is also great for blocking out loud sounds.

Another tool for reducing anxiety is the Thundershirt - a great way to keep dogs calm. You may also consider speaking with your vet about obtaining some prescription medicine for dogs with heightened anxiety levels.

Keep Your Pets Away From Fireworks

Not only are fireworks fear-inducing to most dogs and cats, but they can also cause harm to pets if contact is made. In order to avoid any injuries, burns or possible ingestion we suggest keeping your pets away altogether.

Adopt a Homeless Pet

Shelters are beginning to make space for lost dogs and cats brought in over the 4th of July holiday. Because our shelters have a limited amount of space to take in animals, they need to create space for the dogs they anticipate receiving.

In order to help decrease the number of euthanized animals over the July 4th holiday please consider adopting from your local shelter. If adoption is not an option, but you still want to make a difference in an animal's life, ask your local shelter about fostering.

Please view our current dogs available for adoption if you are interested, and contact adopt@angelcitypits.org if you’d like to adopt.

Please contact foster@angelcitypits.org if you’d like to become a foster parent for a dog in need.

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Foster Friday: Everybody Loves Rosie

jenny — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 16:54:05 +0000

Friday, June 15, 2012 - 9:54am

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Before adopting my first dog a couple of years ago, I used to be very afraid of wagging tails, from tiny Chihuahuas to larger breeds. Even after adopting Max, a Pomeranian mix, “bully breeds” continued to frighten me. That was until Rosie, a 6-month old female, pink nosed pit bull, interrupted one of my morning runs.

I had barely started jogging when I saw her; she was on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, looking lost and tired, trying desperately to find a new human friend. After clinging to another man there for miles (as he explained to me), and passing me in my frightened state, she located an old lady across Fairfax Boulevard. Perhaps she was operating on a wisdom, thinking an older soul would be more likely to help her.

As I was watching the scene unfold, I honestly felt a moral dilemma unfold as well. I had little experience with dogs - and, absolutely none with larger ones. Since dogs feel emotions, I fancied that she would sense my nervousness and react to it. The thoughts started cascading through my mind ... how would I keep her at my house? Would my landlady be cool with it? Wouldn't it maybe just be easier to bury my head in the sand and forget all about it? Despite my fears and lack of experience, I just could not fathom the idea of a neglected animal - so I decided to do what seemed to be the right thing.

I crossed Fairfax and cautiously walked up to her. Her sweet but worried eyes connected with me immediately, as if she knew she had found help. I was relieved. I called her "Rosie". Because Rosie and I walked for a couple of hours together, we quickly bonded. Even without a leash, she obeyed all my commands. I remember running into people walking their dogs - reading their faces, seeing their concern that Rosie was off leash. I, too, wasn't so sure about how she would react to other four-legged companions. But, everything was fine ... not only was Rosie obedient, but to my greatest surprise, she was also very sweet. On leash, she was great to walk; she did not pull at all.

Rosie cured a lot of my fear of pit bulls and larger dog breeds. Not only did she cure me ... she captured my heart as well. I fell in love with Rosie

Unfortunately I could not keep her. My landlady refused to host a pit bull on her property, and I couldn't find anybody to foster her that day. I was facing the fact that I would have no other choice but to take her to the local animal shelter. My beloved wife, who was helping me in the process, had the great idea of asking the owner of our doggie daycare, Karen, if she could help. Karen usually does not accept such requests; however, her having a pit bull herself, and hearing about how great Rosie was, she made an exception and offered Rosie a temporary home.

In the mornings, Rosie would hang out with Karen and other people at the coffee shop, eating prosciutto for breakfast. Then she would play with other dogs at daycare. And at night she had Karen, who quickly fell in love with Rosie, too.

The neighbors loved Rosie. The staff at the day care loved Rosie. Everybody loved Rosie. But Rosie had still not found her forever home; that is where Angel City Pit Bulls came in. Karen and I agreed that Rosie becoming an Angel City pit bull would be the best way to ensure she would be adopted into a loving family. Just like everyone else, the folks from Angel City Pit Bulls fell in love with her, too.

For me, I feel cured of my fear. When dropping Rosie off at her new Angel City Pit Bulls' foster home, I met another delightful pit bull - Rosie's new foster home friend - and experienced no fear at all.

I saved Rosie. But in so many ways, Rosie saved me, too.

Olivier
ACPB Volunteer and Rosie's Guardian

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We Need Foster Parents!

jenny — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 16:26:13 +0000

Friday, June 8, 2012 - 9:26am

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Angel City Pit Bulls is exclusively a foster-based program. Without a shelter or boarding facility, every dog we take in must have an individual foster home. As one can imagine, this make foster parents vital to our mission.

Simply put, by providing a transitional home for a rescue dog, foster parents save the life of a dog. For those who cannot adopt or are not ready to, it is the single greatest way to make an individual impact to the systemic problem of shelter overcrowding. While there are more benefits than we could ever list, perhaps the biggest one is your knowing that without you, your foster dog may not be here today.

We are seeking homes with and without other dogs. It doesn't matter if you have a house or an apartment, children or no children, cats or no cats; we will match you with a dog that fits your home and lifestyle. The average length of time for a dog in our program is about two months from shelter to adoption. If you are worried that it will be too hard to part with your foster dog, we understand. Foster parents reserve the right to adopt their foster dog. ACPB fully supports our foster dogs; we provide all expenses as well as volunteer support, transportation, and training resources.

We are actively seeking foster homes for our some of our current foster dogs so that we can bring new dogs into our program.

DISNEY
Around a year old, Disney has a nice flexible energy. He loves to play, but is also great at relaxing. He can be fostered with other well-matched dogs, as he gets along very well with them. We are specifically looking for a structured household with well-defined leadership for Disney, as he could use some consistency and work on his manners.

GRACE
Recently came to us by way of the West LA Shelter, Grace is a sweet, friendly, 2 year old girl, who loves everyone she meets. She was found as a stray with evidence of some type of altercation with another dog(s). Not surprisingly, she is fearful of other dogs and a bit defensive around larger ones. Grace will need socializing to help her trust other dogs. She did remarkably well with cats at the shelter and should be able to coexist peacefully with a feline friend.

JUNIOR
We gave Junior his name because he is the spitting image of ACPB alumnus, Henry! In fact, Junior is currently fostered with Henry and they have already become fast friends. He is around a year old, sweet, smart and has a flexible energy. He likes other dogs and has a well-mannered play style.

ANNIE
Annie is about 3 years old and very ready to be adopted. She would thrive in a home without another dog, or with a submissive male or smaller dog. She gets along wonderfully with children and loves people. She has a flexible energy level, and can go on a run or is happy just relaxing by your side. Annie thrives with clear leadership, knows her manners and is very well behaved.

Please visit our foster a dog page for more info and please email foster@angelcitypits.org if you are interested in becoming a foster parent.

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