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April became National Volunteer Month as part of President George H. W. Bush's 1000 Points of Light campaign in 1991. We celebrate the beauty and heart of all our Cavalier Rescue of Florida volunteers. Meet our team! xoxo Leader of the Pack, Tracy Baker, who leads our wonderful, selfless, loving volunteers at Cavalier Rescue of Florida . Like the rest of us, Tracy Baker was captivated with this incredible breed when she was shown a photo of a friend’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy! So much adorableness and beauty in such a sweet, beautiful floofy package. With Olivia and Sydney it was a life changing addition to her family. Tracy was inspired to get more involved and was shocked to discover that this breed dogs had a rescue group OR could need rescue at all. After fostering dozens of cavaliers over the past eight years, Tracy landed in the Executive Director role, where she is responsible for the many decisions helping these beautiful creatures on their road to health and happiness. Tracy works hand-in-hand with our all-volunteer team covering this expansive state of Florida , all of whom jump in at a moment’s notice to rescue Blenheim, Black and Tan, Ruby and Tri-color cavies , anticipate and vet their needs, transport them to priority care and loving fosters, and ultimately ushering them to safety. “Nothing is perfect, but we lovingly treat all the pups as if they are own, safety is key,” says Baker. The organization and all of its moving parts have thrived under Tracy’s watchful eye. There are more thorough background checks for dog rescue volunteers, fosters and adopters Greater medical care and rehabilitation Faster response times to inquiries and rescues Detailed record keeping Very earnest fund raising efforts , donation success and strategies to give Plus, very importantly, more effective communication through social media, website and delivering information to adopter families. Her greatest reward is seeing the transformation of the cavies from intake to their fur-ever homes . They can be overweight or underweight and they typically arrive sad, scared, neglected, and many times feeling unwell. Safe from previous precarious situations, including frightful puppy mills, with love and medical attention, the rescued pups are transformed into happier and healthier dogs. Often, they arrive as bonded pairs, feeling comfort from each other. “ This is why CRF volunteers do what they do. Any time, day or night, anywhere in the state… Tracy adds, “we are in service to these beautiful creatures. We are very fortunate and blessed to have such wonderful volunteers who will do anything they can to help these dogs. We are so very lucky to have sweet cavaliers in our lives.” Tracy Baker Volunteering shouldn't feel like another thing you have to mark off of your "to-do list." Whether you're a more hands-on worker or someone who enjoys administrative work, CRF has a role for you as a volunteer ! From fostering, transporting, vetting, to helping organize thank you notes, reviewing online ads, applications, calling on referrals, there is a place for YOU to excel as a volunteer. Find out more about volunteering with Cavalier Rescue of Florida here . Love, the Cavies! XO

While we never like to think of our beloved pets getting lost, it is important to have ways to identify them and contact you in the event that it happens. National Microchip Month in June is all about pets — and ensuring they are safely implanted with a little chip so they can be traced if they go missing. Everyone knows how easy it can be to lose track of your pup, even for a second; our little spaniels love to chase squirrels or lizards and generally explore… This month aims to reduce pet owners’ stress and worry if their pets go missing by encouraging microchipping. We have all seen those heartwarming stories of lost pups being reunited to their grateful and heartbroken owners even after many years… ALL Cavalier Rescue of Florida rescue pups are microchipped before being ready for adoption. It is more than just returning pets to their forever family in the case that they are separated. Pet identification can be important for the safety and medical needs of your pet. If there is any important information regarding medical or health complications, that data can be stored on the chip and alert a vet in case they are discovered without their owners. If your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel wanders out or goes missing, alert CRF immediately. They might have been newly adopted and not familiar with the neighborhood. Remember CRF is registered on the microchip. And, we can notify our vast CRF volunteer and foster network (and their animal loving friends) to assist with the search for your beloved Blenheim, Ruby, Tri-color or Black and Tan. Love, the Cavies! Xo

T’was the Night before Christmas, O’er a sky of sparkly stars that shone, Every cavalier was dreaming of finding fur-ever families of their own! The cavies were nestled all snug in their big beds, While visions of Milkbones danced in their cute heads. Tidings of comfort, joy and snoring lulled them all to sleep. The pups were so hopeful, there wasn't a need to count sheep! The Floridian moonlight flickered across the fronds of the palm, Sparkling a lustre of magic and sweeping in a sense of calm. When what to my wondering eyes did appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer, More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, Santa Paws whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: Now DASHER, now DANCER, now, PRANCER and VIXEN!On COMET, on CUPID, on DONNER and BLITZEN! To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall, Let’s find them a home where they’ll be cherished by all! So up to the housetop the coursers they flew, The sleigh full of joys, and St. Nicholas too— And then, in a twinkling, from the sounds on the roof, I heard the prancing and playing of each little floof. A bundle of toys and treats he had flung in his pack, Cavaliers jumped with excitement for their long-awaited snack! King Charles Spaniels, so regal, so beautiful, a sight to behold, Delightfully enchanting with ebullience, loyalty and a heart made of gold. With a wink and a bark, Santa Paws worked with his elves, He fulfilled all the pups’ dreams and jingled the bells. He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight— Happy cuddles to all, and to all a good life! Cavalier Rescue of Florida wishes you the happiest of holidays! On behalf of all our volunteers, fosters, Blenheim, Ruby Tri- Color and Black and Tan pups… Happy New Year to one and all! Love, the Cavies! Xo

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their friendly and sociable nature, but they can also be prone to excessive barking, which can be frustrating for their owners. Whether triggered by boredom, anxiety, or territorial instincts, excessive barking can disrupt the peace and harmony of the home, leading to frustration for both the owner and the dog. One frustration that Cavalier owners may encounter is trying to identify the underlying cause of their dog's excessive barking. Without understanding the root cause, it can be challenging to address the behavior effectively. Common triggers for excessive barking in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels include boredom, loneliness, attention-seeking, fear, and territorial behavior. To address excessive barking, Cavalier owners can implement various strategies to help manage and reduce this behavior. Providing mental and physical stimulation through regular exercise, interactive toys, and training sessions can help keep your Cavalier mentally engaged and prevent boredom-related barking. Establishing clear boundaries and consistent training routines can also help reduce excessive barking in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels . Teaching your dog the "quiet" command and rewarding calm behavior can help reinforce desired behaviors and discourage excessive barking. Addressing any underlying anxiety or fear issues is essential for managing excessive barking in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Creating a safe and nurturing environment, providing comfort and reassurance during stressful situations, and seeking professional help if needed can help alleviate anxiety-related barking behaviors. While addressing excessive barking can be challenging, it's essential for Cavalier owners to remain patient, consistent, and proactive in their approach. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing appropriate strategies, Cavalier owners can effectively manage and reduce excessive barking, creating a peaceful and harmonious home environment for both themselves and their furry companions. Ana is the owner of West Coast Cavaliers, a responsible and experienced breeder and a friend of CRF.  They have a strong commitment to forever learning and educating themselves to breed only the healthiest and happiest Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies that thrive.  West Coast Cavaliers is in Hoquiam, Washington and online at https://westcoastcavaliers.com .

Is my pup’s scratching SM? Cocoa falling over as she air scratches. Syringomyelia, or SM, is a serious neurological disease found in our Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.  It’s considered an inherited disease that is progressive and can vary in the degree of seriousness.  While the Cavalier is the single most affected breed (another handful of breeds also experience it) and it is fairly common among them, by no means are most of our dogs going to suffer from it. First, since it’s a mouthful, let’s address the pronunciation as it’s so much nicer to appear a little smarter in front of your vet.  Say it as Suh-ringo-my-eelia.  The condition is complicated, as it is related to COMS (Caudal Occipital Malformation Syndrome), Chiari-like Malformation, and even Occipital Dysplasia.  The essence of these diseases is that the dog’s skull is too small for their brain.  Specifically in SM, there is not enough room in the space of the skull at the back of the brain, and this interferes with the flow of spinal fluid to the rest of the body.  This constraint causes pockets of fluid, called syrinxes, to be created which causes a sort of phantom pain, thought be the pressure on the nerves, mostly around the shoulders and neck. The most common initial symptom is what is called “air scratching,” with the rear legs scratching on or maybe just near the neck and ears.  The symptoms can include: •          That excessive scratching, often coming on during walks on a leash.  It can appear as an awkward gait, with the dog falling over as it scratches in mid-air.  They may walk with an apparent curve to one side of their body.  A harness will help with some of this during walks.  Touching the dog's neck or ears can sometimes bring on scratching as the area may be sensitive if the disease advances. •          It may cause pain that makes the pup whine, yelp, or whimper for no apparent reason.  Restlessness might be seen as they may shift constantly while trying to rest.  Even weather changes can bring on episodes. •          Limping or a general lack of coordination, and maybe they have difficulty getting up and down off a couch or bed. •          Head shaking and rubbing, or excessive rutching and digging at covers and beds in a somewhat frantic manner. In a more seriously progressed disorder, somewhat rare, it can lead to greater neurological issues, resulting in nerve damage and even seizures. With some of these symptoms looking like what would be common behavior in many dogs, it can be difficult to diagnose early.  But it’s worth watching our Cavaliers closer if you suspect the possibility of Syringomyelia.  And there are, of course, other ailments that can cause some of the symptoms, including ear infections, skin conditions, or mites or fleas. There’s also Primary Secretory Otitis Media (PSOM), also known as "glue ear," another disease found almost exclusively in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.  This is an inflammation of the dog's middle ear causing a bulge that carries many similar symptoms and can often lead to deafness. With such a baffling range of possibilities, it’s important that the vet you choose for this diagnosis effort be well familiar with Cavaliers, as many normal and well-qualified veterinarians just aren’t familiar with these diseases seldom found in most breeds.  Indeed, consultation with a good board-certified veterinary neurologist is highly recommended, if not mandatory for any dog believed to have Syringomyelia.  Web searches will turn up a variety of options, such as the 26 Florida-based veterinary neurologists at VetSpecialists.com . It’s worth mentioning that CRF is a big believer in specialists for conditions such Cardiology, Ophthalmology, Oncology, as well as Neurology.  We have had dozens of interactions with neurological specialists, though with decidedly mixed results.  We’ll say that often the best advice is to trust your gut and don't be afraid to ask questions or get 2nd opinions. So, SM can be found in either sex and all colors and at pretty much any age.  So how do we know for sure if it’s Syringomyelia?  The only way to absolutely confirm a diagnosis is by getting them in for an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), enabling that pocket of fluid (syrinx) to be visualized in an MRI’s “slices” of images.  However, that’s an expense we seldom endorse, as after a good neuro consult, they often are willing and able to treat and see how a dog responds without an MRI for confirmation, because if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it probably is a duck.  So how can we help these poor pups ?  Medication management can help a lot, though note none will ultimately “cure” your dog.  Drugs sometimes prescribed might include Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories (NSAIDs) like Rimadyl, Gabapentin (aka Neurontin), Omeprazole (aka Prilosec), and others.  Here we’ll remind you, please don’t attempt to apply medications without the direction of your veterinarian.  Dosing of these is, perhaps obviously, at much lower levels than you would take.  Acupuncture is also a treatment that seems to help some dogs. Truly severe cases of SM, particularly at a very young age, might suggest a surgery.  This is where a part of the skull’s bone at the rear is removed to open the space and remove the pressure.  Yet even this may only be temporary as the condition is capable of returning some months or years later.  And it’s expensive and rarely called for or needed.  We’ll stop here and, as usual, defer you to your appropriately expert Cavalier vet specialist, but we just wanted to paint the range of this disease.  Insert here all the fitting disclaimers that we are not to be considered licensed professionals. As challenging as that all may sound, Cavaliers with Syringomyelia most often lead long and happy lives.  Please don’t consider this deep dive into Syringomyelia as worrying as it might sound.  SM in most Cavaliers is not a highly progressed ailment.  And there are many accommodations we can make for them.  A harness rather than a collar is called for in any leashed activities.  An elevated water and feeding bowl will keep some of that pressure off.  Maybe a stroller allows you and perhaps any canine siblings to still get those walks in while not leaving anyone behind.  Steps will be a more comfortable way to get on and off the couch and bed.  Pay attention to how they react to being picked up.  And simply be watchful and take cues from your pup, they’ll generally let you know what’s comfortable. Syringomyelia is an unfortunate attribute of the evolution of the Cavalier, though, lovers as they are, we know we wouldn’t trade them for the world.  As always, we are wishing you the love of a Cavalier! Syringomyelia and Chiari malformation are conditions found in humans as well. And May is Syringomyelia Awareness Month as promoted by the American Syringomyelia & Chiari Alliance Project at https://asap.org/ .

Gobble Gobble! Cavalier Rescue of Florida wishes you, your pup and their forever family a Happy Thanksgiving! As you’re getting ready for your Thanksgiving feast, keep in mind that pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween and pies - it can serve as an aide to digestive health AND a tasty treat for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Pumpkin is a great source of potassium, carotenoids, Vitamins A and C, and fiber. In fact, the fiber in pumpkin can help your Cavalier feel fuller longer – promoting weight management! Adding a little pumpkin to your pup’s meal can also help to relieve digestive upset, like diarrhea and constipation. Pumpkin may already be an ingredient in your Cavalier’s food. But if not, try plain, canned, pureed, or fresh cooked pumpkin - starting with 1⁄2 teaspoon...small portions for seniors and puppies alike, despite their big appetites. It’s not just humans that overeat at the holidays; some of us may be a bit indulgent with our Cavaliers. Despite their pure-bred and royal lineage, we know how much they LOVE to eat! Adopt healthier choices for your rescue dog health tip; there are plenty of fall favorites that are tasty and safe options for your Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tans to share (in small portions) during holiday "feast-ivities." Potatoes and sweet potatoes (no butter, sour cream, salt, or pepper) Turkey – no skin or bones Green beans Plain peas Apples Carrots Pumpkin Don’t surrender to those cute faces… these are a NO NO! NO, Raisins and grapes NO Onions, scallions, and garlic NO Fatty foods, breads, desserts, chocolate Love, the Cavies! Xo

Pet Obesity Awareness Day! Cavalier King Charles Spaniels come in all shapes and sizes, but sometimes sizes get a little out of hand. That's why on October 12 we recognize National Pet Obesity Day to remind people to keep their pups healthy. We know this breed loves to eat and indulge on snacks, and if we can’t say no to those cute faces and those sweet eyes, their weight can easily get out-of-control. Especially if your pup is a senior , these weight issues can quickly evolve with minimal exercise. Purebred or not, pet obesity can cause serious health problems, and make existing problems worse, which can reduce the length and quality of your pet's life. It puts them at greater risk of conditions such as: · Diabetes · Heart disease · Respiratory distress · High blood pressure · Cancers At Cavalier Rescue of Florida , for our cavaliers under our care that need weight loss, t he key is mostly committing to a plan and hard work by the foster family in supporting weight loss for them. The ideal weight loss is no more than one half pound per week so the foster family always weighs them weekly on same day on the same scale; adjustments in amount of food are sometimes needed if they plateau in their weight for more than 1-2 weeks. Cavalier Rescue of Florida(CRF) uses a very simple formula of food moderation and exercise. · Eat a specific amount of food they get per feeding. They are not on a weight loss food - they are on a regular food (NutrsiSource Beef and Rice) · Pups rarely get other treats - occasionally once a week a small non-kibble “treat” · Foster family uses the dry dog food or kibble from the amount they get each day as their treats when they are teaching them commands like sit, stay, leave it. · Fosters also use positive reinforcement that is not food · Our volunteers are dedicated to make sure our Cavaliers walk about one-half mile a day - at a minimum 5 days every week Here are a few simple checks you can do to see whether your pup is overweight. We know our pups can have plenty of floofy-ness, so maybe try these hints when your pup is fresh from the bath and their coats are wet and flat. · You should be able to see and feel the outline of your dog's ribs without excess fat covering. · You should be able to see and feel your dog's “waist”, and it should be clearly visible when viewed from above. · Your dog's belly should be tucked up when viewed from the side. If your Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tan doesn't pass these checks, or if you're in any doubt, consult your vet or CRF for a health check or weight loss suggestions. Love, the Cavaliers! Xo

Back to school and brush up on your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel education…Cavalier Rescue of Florida is always researching best practices and most helpful and wholistic veterinary options for our sweet pure-bred Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tans rescue Cavies. Once you adopt, we highly recommend reading the book by Dr. Judy Morgan, From Needles to Natural. It provides insight on integrative medicine - combining natural and holistic methods of pet care along with traditional western medicine. http://www.drjudymorgan.com/product/from-needles-to-natural/ As a volunteer group , we follow her advice for our Cavaliers best second chance regarding the facts about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. For more info on Dr. Judy Morgan, see https://www.facebook.com/JudyMorganDVM/; website www.drjudymorgan.com An additional integrative veterinary resource is Dr. Karen Becker. See her website: www.drkarenbecker.com/DVM ; Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/doctor.karen.becker . She also writes a daily blog through Mercola.com, and you can sign up to receive it daily for free here. Additional Resources: https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/fda-alert-isoxazoline-class-flea-tick-products/ https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/bravecto-nexgard-simparica-oral-flea-tick-preventives-safe/ http://yourpetsneedthis.com/bravecto-nexgard-simparica-ade-reports-q1-2017/ http://www.drjudymorgan.com/new-drug-kills-everything-maybe-even-your-dog/ http://www.drjudymorgan.com/deadly-flea-and-tick-prevention/ http://www.drjudymorgan.com/chemicals-kill/ Video of a reaction to Nexguard https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nkyrkc-DAIk Vaccinations – Sometimes Less Is More Why the Kennel Cough Vaccine Won't Protect Your Dog, Dr. Karen Becker https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2019/02/06/kennel-cough.aspx Love, the Caváliers! Xo

National Puppy Mill Awareness Month encourages those looking for a new pup, to adopt , not shop. It is estimated that there are at least 10,000 puppy mills in the United States, fewer than 3,000 of which are regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Florida has one of the country's highest number of puppy-selling pet stores, which often source puppies from out-of-state puppy mills. Which is why Cavalier Rescue of Florida AND ALL RESCUES ARE A LABOR OF LOVE and so important for these beautiful Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. September is a national observance dedicated to improving the lives of dogs and spread the word about DEPLORABLE puppy mills. While reputable dog breeders care for the cavalier breed they raise, puppy mill /momma dogs serve one purpose - pop out pure-bred puppies for profit. Mill dogs are systematically imprisoned in a world of dirty, cramped, too-small cages and surrounded in filth; often stacked high upon each other; and, usually confined outdoors in the harsh elements of extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow. The cage with wire flooring digs into their paws causing more pain. Medical care is nonexistent at worst and minimal at best. It’s the only world these pups know unless they get a “golden ticket” and are scooped up by the loving embrace of rescue. While some pups are lucky to get saved, many more continue to suffer. Heart wrenching. This is where many of senior cavaliers come from , a life of breeding and then when they “age out,” they are cast aside to an auction or worse. Without rescue, these pups may well have spent their entire lives suffering in unimaginable conditions, never knowing love, care, or companionship. If more people knew what puppy mills were, less people would buy Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tan Cavaliers online and from pet stores. So, this September, please take a moment to spread awareness about puppy mills this month and every month from now on. The more people that know about it, the sooner we can get rid of these horrible facilities once and for all. Share information about puppy mills on social media or just tell a friend. If you know someone who’s looking for a dog, steer them toward shelters & rescues. If you know someone who shops at a pet store that sells puppies, educate them and encourage them to shop somewhere else. Love, The Cavaliers. xo

How can I adopt a Cavalier? Be ready when they’re ready! The first step is to complete the Cavalier Rescue of Florida “adoption application” form . It’s important to read and complete all sections accurately, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through! This is the initial way the Placement Team gets to know you. Our mission is to place a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in a home that meets THEIR needs – we are all about finding that furever, happy place for each dog! This is a big difference between CRF and a shelter, and even some other Rescues. We not only focus on this beautiful breed, but their specific needs. We consider ourselves “matchmakers” – the Placement Team matches the dog and their specific needs to a home and family that already offers what that particular dog needs. Though you might be enamored with a certain dog, if you do not have the home or lifestyle that the Cavalier needs, CRF will not match you to that Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tans…male or female, senior or puppy . If you are truly interested in adopting, it’s best if you apply to CRF before you even see a Cavie of interest on our website . If you happen to see a Cavalier that you ARE interested in – who wouldn’t fall in love with their sweet faces – be sure to completely read their bio and understand the implications for you and your lifestyle. If you offer what that specific Cavalier needs for a happy life, then mention their name and your interest in the application. And, yes! We adopt to out-of-state families, not just Florida! Once approved, the adopting forever family is required to go to the home where the Cavalier is fostered to pick up their new furbaby. The options are that you drive or fly, but if you fly the Cavalier MUST travel with you in the plane’s cabin; this purebred is small enough to fit under the seat. We will NEVER ship a Cavalier or allow one of our Cavaliers to travel in cargo. Love, the Cavies! Xo

Two animals who have special, deep relationships — offer several advantages. Cavalier Rescue of Florida loves our bonded pairs! Twice as much love and cuteness to enjoy! These pups will typically sleep together, play together, eat at the same time, and protect each other if one shows duress. Sometimes the tight twosomes are littermates who grew up together, while other bonded pairs have lived together for long periods and formed a strong relationship, it’s sad when they are surrendered together. That’s where CRF steps in! It’s easy to imagine the downside to adopt a bonded pair of purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: two pets require a bigger investment in food and veterinary care. But what are the benefits of adopting a couple? Your Cavaliers are never alone. Some pups become agitated or bored when left alone, even for a quick errand. These feelings can lead to acting out in negative ways, including excessive barking, chewing of toys, shoes etc., and relapses in potty training. Pets can be anxious, and their owners can feel guilty. If your pet has a companion, you are less likely to see these behaviors. Pets are less stressed by your departure and find ways to entertain each other that should leave your house less of a mess and your pets happier. Pets who live together are often healthier. Anxiety can lead to physical illnesses, from hair loss to heart problems. Add to that boredom and stress eating, and you have the potential for an overweight, unhealthy pet. Bonded pairs often play together, keeping their energy up and increasing their exercise levels. The reduction in stress will help keep their hearts healthy and their bodies fit. Many times, these pups, often seniors have endured a stressful or dangerous situation together and they need each for comfort; their love for each other will take your breath away. They arrive in all combinations of colors, Blenheims, Rubies Tri-Color and Black and Tans…male and female, senior and puppy, just adorable cavalier companions. If a pair is truly bonded, the benefits of keeping them together highly outweigh the drawbacks. Consider sending an adoption application for a sweet bonded pair. Imagine the love and joy bursting in your furever family! Love, the Cavaliers! Xo

The grooming requirements for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are similar to those of any other spaniel breed. Make sure to brush your bird's feathers with a comb at least once a week to prevent tangles and mats. Brushing more frequently is even better. If you intend to display your dog, you will not want to trim their feathers. If you don't trim their feathers, make sure to brush them every other day. Regularly trimming the fur between your pup’s paw pads is important to prevent it from growing out and covering their pads, which can make it difficult for your pooch to gain traction. It's true that many dogs don't like getting their feet trimmed and can be ticklish, but it's necessary for their well-being. Therefore, it's important to do it. Just like any other dog breed, it's important to regularly trim your dog's claws. Another method you can use is counter-conditioning to show them that grooming can be a pleasant experience. However, it is necessary for their well-being and should be done. Additionally, like any other breed, you will need to regularly trim your dog's nails. If you start introducing grooming and trimming during your puppy's socialization period, they will become accustomed to it as they grow up. This will make grooming a less stressful experience for both you and your dog. You can also use counter-conditioning techniques to make grooming a positive and enjoyable experience for them. You can adjust the frequency of bathtime for your dog, ranging from once a month to once every three months. It's important to wash them only if they're very dirty or starting to smell. Washing them less often is generally better because excessive bathing can remove the natural oils from their skin and fur, which may lead to skin problems. After taking your dog for a walk, simply towel them off to keep them clean in between baths. This is usually sufficient to maintain their cleanliness. Their paws and fur act like sponges, so toweling them off is a good practice. If they have any mud on them, you can also use a little warm water to spot clean those dirty areas. In addition to bathing and brushing, it's crucial to regularly clean your dog's teeth. Good oral hygiene is essential for all dogs, and their teeth should be brushed at least once a week, but ideally every other day. Ana is the owner of West Coast Cavaliers, a responsible and experienced breeder and a friend of CRF.  They have a strong commitment to forever learning and educating themselves to breed only the healthiest and happiest Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies that thrive.  West Coast Cavaliers is in Hoquiam, Washington and online at https://westcoastcavaliers.com.

Sweet Monty! First introduced behind a chain link fence - we saved this pup from a chaotic existence of gritty and filthy living: a dirt-filled, muddy backyard surrounded by metal fencing. He shared this “life” with a pack of dogs - both large and small. It is these unwieldly circumstances that we think caused him to lose his eye after a ball-chasing scuffle with a much larger dog. Heartbreaking. Even with the simple records provided, there is no way to determine how factual or up-to-date this information is. Monty was despondent and languishing away in squalor . . . It’s so hard to picture this life for our Cavies. Arriving into rescue with one eye, sweet Monty was flea-infested, jittery, resistant to touch and cried in pain when handled. We don’t know if he was nervous and crying from physical ailments, recoiling from being poorly handled by humans or reacting to lack of human contact. We knew we had our hands full; beyond love, care and affection, he desperately needed medical attention. Immediately sent for a full medical work-up, we now understood his shrieks. Monty has an inflamed and infected prostate; asymmetric testicles; there are oddly “healed” puncture wounds throughout his body; both ears are infected; and his remaining eye has brownish drainage. There was a painful lump on his right ear plus his anal glands were full to nearly bursting capacity (likely never expressed) and his whole bottom was irritated and raw. So sad! Dried and bloody matts were shaved off his body during examination. To spare this pup further pain, during his neuter surgery more matts were removed including a particularly large and grizzly one behind his ear that peeled away with a scab attached! Antibiotics have been started and titers are pending. In a cruel twist of fate, although his heart is healthy, it is broken. It is unimaginable that any pup, especially our sweet precious Cavaliers could exist like this. CRF has many wounds to heal, the ones we can see and the invisible scars he carries in his soul. This pup is two years old. In his short life he has suffered tremendously. Needlessly. Monty is one of the lucky ones to have been rescued by CRF. We are dedicated to providing the best care, comfort, and wellness for all of our rescued pups and many times their needs are extensive. As we rehabilitate this beauty back to health and happiness, his medical expenses have added up quickly, plus he will have continued follow-up visits, specialists and medications. All hope is not lost, his foster mom finds him jumping up, standing on his two back feet and yearning for love and attention. Monty is asking for your help. We can’t wait for him to enjoy a pampered and adored life that all Cavies should have. We ask our Angels for their support and generosity as we continue this journey of wellness and love of our magnificent Monty. We hope you can help us with this ask. Let’s send him lots of love and well wishes as he recuperates with his foster mom. We love you, Monty!  XO  ❤ We appreciate your ongoing dedication to our mission. As always, my heart overflows with gratitude for all of you, our CRF Angels! Tracy Baker, Executive Director For Angels who prefer to mail a check, our mailing address is: Cavalier Rescue of Florida, Inc. Attn: The Monty Fund 1015 Atlantic Blvd, #109, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Authored By, the Dog with a Blog! It may be news in itself that a dog gets an opportunity to have a Blog, but I worked hard for it.  No one spends more time with my human than I do.  I lie around, under and near his desk most of the day.  You wouldn’t believe the conversations I’m part of.  Sure, most of my lobbying is to head out for another walk, go play, or maybe have a treat.  But I have my moments of brilliance, too.  And eventually he realized that I had something to say about life and agreed to let me have this space. So, my comments will likely be those of most dogs.  Your dog could probably tell you the same.  Really then, it’s just that you don’t take some cues from us like maybe you could. What do we suggest to you, pretty much every day? Let’s play. Let’s take a walk. Let’s eat, drink, and do our business afterwards. Let’s take a nap. And let’s spend a little special time together, maybe snuggling and scratching. Now, what else do you need to know? Probably how excellent we are at focusing on right now.  Enjoying now.  We don’t think about the past.  Memories are kinda vague.  Hey, it’s why it may take a little while to learn that trick.  We don’t worry about the future, either.  We know, now that we’ve been rescued, that we’ll be alright and taken care of. Alright, alright, I hear you.  That’s all because of you.  Yes, very few of us have to work for a living.  Thank you, okay.  Really, thank you a lot.  Come here and let me lick your face.  Truly, we’re very appreciative. But, seriously, do you all get how much time you spend thinking about stuff that just doesn’t matter at the moment?  The time will come to deal with that.  Relax.  You don’t see me getting all stressed out, do you? Learning to trust that everything happens for a reason and will work out, and be okay with it, no matter what . . . now that’s a gift, people.  Just be here with us now and enjoy that.  Some people call it mindfulness.  I call it being a dog. Then there’s one more thing.  It’s love.  We love you, man.  Really, we do.  No matter what, right?  I’m always there when you get back, happy to see you.  That’s one dose of forgiveness mixed with a huge serving of unconditional love. Want to be happier?  Spend some time working on those things.  And hey, don’t be self-conscious.  It’s okay if your tongue hangs out and you pant a bit.  You’re beautiful just the way you are.  And remember I love you. xo Now, let’s go for a nice walk, shall we?

Small yet powerful! U.S. National Blueberry Month is celebrated annually in July. Whether your pup is a Ruby, Blenheim, Black and Tan or Tricolor, you will want these blues, just like almost everyone in America does. The ‘holy grail’ of longevity foods that protects you and your pup "like a suit of armor"🫐🐾! Yes, blueberries are a great low-calorie treat for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. They also contain antioxidants, fiber and vitamins C and K. These nutrients support the immune system and contribute to overall health. Adding blueberries to your Cavalier’s diet is a great way to help keep them happy and healthy. Blueberries offer powerful nutritional bonuses to dogs. Antioxidants also fight inflammation and cancer-causing free radicals, such as pollution, in both humans and dogs. Reducing inflammation can minimize brain aging in dogs and lessen arthritis pain. Vitamins in blueberries, such as C and K, promote a stronger immune system. Blueberry fiber contributes to digestive health and regular bowel movements. Trace elements such as calcium, iron, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus, which aren’t always available in the meat, are present in blueberries. CRF is happy to share “juicy” tips and treats and even though blueberries are perfectly healthy for your dog to eat, consider the following pointers on safety, quantities, and preparation. Be safe: When feeding something new, especially human food, always consult your vet to ensure those choices are suitable for your dog’s unique constitution. Feed blueberries in moderation: Always feed your Cavalier a 100% complete and balanced diet and manage snacks and treats. No matter what food you offer, consider your pup’s, size, age, and lifestyle. Watch your pup while he’s eating the berries. They tend to eat treats fast and because blueberries small, some people think they are easy for Cavalier to eat; others consider blueberries a choking hazard. If possible, buy sustainably-raised blueberries to avoid pesticides and herbicides. For fresh berries, discard old, dried out, or moldy berries. Wash them carefully. As with any new food, gradually incorporate blueberries into your Cavalier’s diet. Give him two to three and watch for any negative reactions, stomach upset, vomiting, itching, or loose stools. Celebrate National Blueberry Day with Cavalier Rescue of Florida on Saturday, July 8! National Blueberry Day is a day to spread awareness about the health benefits of this fruit. Adopt brilliant blueberry benefits and habits--in addition to their great taste, blueberries are rich in fiber and loaded with antioxidants. Fun fact: Native Americans once called them "star berries," because the five points of blueberry blossoms make a star shape. CRF is rescuing the antioxidant world – one blueberry at a time! Love, the Cavaliers! Xo

Pups on the Go Internationally - March 2024 People are taking pets overseas for vacation or a permanent move more than ever.  A savvy traveler offers tips for success. Whether you’re moving to a new country or simply visiting for a few weeks or months, taking a pet along requires planning and patience. Quarantine is rarely required, not even in the United Kingdom, but mandatory vaccinations, parasite treatment and paperwork are musts.  It’s also important to be aware of travel requirements to certain countries.  For instance, animals can’t travel in the cabin on flights to the U.K. unless it’s by private jet - out of reach financially for most of us - but generally they can on flights into European Union countries. Debby Bradford, currently living in Melbourne, Florida, traveled with her dog Dazzle in the U.K. and Europe for four months last year, and in May they’re moving to Portugal.  She has advice for others contemplating overseas travel with their pets. Her first tip: “Stop asking strangers on Facebook for advice.” Instead, go to the source: the USDA-APHIS website (www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel), which has everything you need to know for each country you’re planning to visit, including required microchips and vaccinations, finding a USDA-accredited veterinarian to do the paperwork, and the timeline for completion and approval of paperwork before travel.  “Once you’re on the website, choose what country you’re going to, see what is required and check the list of veterinarians in your state authorized to do the paperwork.  It’s just that easy,” she says. Bradford knew she wanted to go to the U.K. first and that pets weren’t permitted on flights into the country, so she made a reservation 18 months in advance on the ship the Queen Mary 2, the only way besides private jet that animals can enter the country directly.  While it’s not necessary for humans traveling on the ship to reserve that far ahead, it has only a limited number of highly coveted kennels for pets.  It can take up to two years to get a pet reservation, although cancellations can move you up the wait list quickly. Flexibility is a must. A Queen Mary crossing is not as expensive as you might think. Bradford, who describes herself as a budget traveler, says passage for herself and Dazzle was about $3,000.  “I always get the cheap room, but I’m eating the same food and seeing the same shows,” she says.  “Airfare is about $2,000, but on the Queen Mary, you get a nice seven-day vacation with gourmet food and shows.” Bradford and Dazzle could hang out for up to eight hours a day at the kennel, and Bradford was impressed by the level of care pets received from the kennel masters. “If something happened to me and somebody wanted to give my dog to one of the kennel masters, I’d say yes. They are absolutely wonderful.” Taking pets into a European Union country such as France, which I did myself seven years ago (uexpress.com/pets/pet-connection/2017/08/07), has similar requirements for microchips, vaccinations, parasite preventives and paperwork, but can be done by air -- if your pet fits in a carrier beneath the seat. Medium-size to large dogs must fly cargo, which most people prefer to avoid. Airlines such as La Compagnie allow pets up to 33 pounds in the cabin. Other times, people with large or multiple pets put together private jet charters that don’t limit pets by size. They find each other on Facebook groups such as Chartered Air Travel With Pets. To visit the U.K. from France, it’s necessary to hire a pet taxi to escort your pet through the Chunnel or take a ferry as walk-on passengers, which is how Bradford and Dazzle returned to the U.K. for their passage home. One important thing to consider is whether your pet will enjoy traveling or be prepared for a flight. The bottom line?  “It’s not that it’s complicated,” Bradford says.  “You just have to pay attention to the little details.” Reprinted with permission, and originally published at https://www.uexpress.com/pets/pet-connection/2024/03/25 ABOUT PET CONNECTION Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet care experts.  Kim Campbell Thornton is an award-winning journalist and author who has been writing about animals since 1985.  Kim Campbell Thornton is at Facebook.com/Kim.CampbellThornton and on Bluesky at kimthornton.bsky.social.

What does the massive consolidation of markets mean to you? You've probably heard, it's happening in almost every market segment of the U.S. economy. Monster-sized corporations have been buying up smaller competitors for years now. It’s to the point that most industry segments are overwhelmingly dominated by just a few mega-billion-dollar firms. In fact, the increased market power (and profits) of these corporations is a significant contributing factor behind inflation, as more than a few studies show.  And merger mania has happened in the pet food category recently. But, again, why care? Well, as the chart below shows, more than 70 dog food brands are now owned by just six major firms. Many of what were small boutique brands only a few years ago got swallowed up.  Did we notice? Maybe more importantly, did anything about your favorite brand change? It’s an open question. CRF is quite staffed to go into the investigative journalism required to answer that, but it may be worth more than a little consideration (and research) for yourself. What do they say?  The more you know... Chart by Holistic Animal Insights

If you know us, you know we consider ourselves a small breed-specific rescue.  Maybe even a tad (proudly) on the snobby side. I mean they are the best dogs on the planet! And nearly all of time, we are dedicated to rescuing purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Yet, occasionally, we will find ourselves in front of Cavalier mixed-breed pups.  We are still dog lovers with a soft spot, especially for a dog in need. So, once in a while you’ll see a Cav mix on our pages. We recently had a couple cases and just introduced them. First, at the end of March we had Reid come in. This fellow is a Cavalier mixed with, well, we don’t know, but hey, it looks good on him. He’s got those ears that suggest a little Papillon maybe?  In fact, the only way we’d ever really know is to do a DNA test.  So far CRF has never paid for a DNA test as, while it might be really interesting, if it doesn’t directly contribute to their health . . . well, we are quite conservative in spending your donations. Reid came to us from a shelter, and we often partner with shelters because we can provide more extensive vetting and care and get some doggies out of shelter situations and into a loving foster home. We chose to take him in, even though we already had almost 30 dogs in rescue.  He’s a 10-year-old cutie pie though and gets along with everyone and doesn’t demand too much, and now this week he became adoptable. Then, again just three days ago we made another rare exception.  Three Cavalier mixes in pretty rough shape appeared as an immediate and dramatic in-need situation. Yes, we caved. These three boys are as fresh in rescue as they come as of this writing.  Some say these curly locked cuties are Cavapoos, but we’ve got several expert witnesses that think differently. No matter, we’ll vet them as we do all dogs that we decide to take in and their lives will be better. And these boys are on the tiny side to be certain, they’re eight to 12 pounds, so if you like them smaller in your lap, here’s your boy(s)! So, while some of us are stubbornly devoted to our purebred Cavaliers, a few offer the argument that mixing the Cavalier gene pool is a good thing by possibly reducing the occurrence of the maladies that so often affect our Cavs. Let the quarrels ensue as the cases are made. Anyway, while rare, you’ll see an occasional Cavalier mix show up. Maybe the bottom line is . . . anything even closely Cavalier is a better pup. Regardless, these mixed Cavies need all the special care and treatment we give all our rescue pups. Maybe you’ll be moved, we hope, to make a donation to help us support our Cavaliers, pure or not as they happen, and we’ll thank you!  xo

Speechless, thunderstruck, flabbergasted, amazed, dumbfounded, astonished, wordless . . . wow! Okay, maybe not that last one. But seriously, Cavie Fest was an awesome surprise! A grass-roots organized event , Cavie Fest out-raised even our own recent fundraising, not to mention the Fun-Raising! The word we're searching for is Grateful! First and foremost, our unending thanks for Debbie Penta, who conceived every aspect of the event, from finding the perfect bark park to inviting the media (yes, we got on TV). She's a CRF Angel! Debbie created the event on the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels of Florida Facebook page. A super-sized event wasn't what she expected, but people kept sharing more ideas, hands, and help. So a super-sized thank you to everyone who participated and donated - all the proceeds are for Cavalier Rescue of Florida. Because of you, we get to do what we do! It's a mere hours after the event, which was 11 - 2 pm on Saturday, May 4, but we're happy, thankful, and wanting to share these pictures! Between the online donation site and on-site sales, we're told the total was over $9,000 in donations! We're gobsmacked and so very, very, very appreciative! xo There were SO many thing to do, but most of all there were SO many pups! It's estimated that there were over 200 of our beloved CKCS friends rollicking in the park! Not to mention close to a hundred Cav Moms and Dads! It's clear we need to be thinking of how to meet the obvious interest in having events like this! Being a (stretched) all-volunteer non-profit, we've never had the bandwidth to have an events team. But who knows? Did we mention that we're looking for a host of volunteers? Maybe You could host the next event. We bet Debbie would share her insights and you'd find a hundred friends helping too! :) Just let us know with a note to volunteer@cavrescuefl.com or complete the Volunteer application and we'll be in touch! Such a fun day! Is it a Guinness World Record for a Cav gathering? Who wouldn't want to be here? Cavaliers are the best dogs, and Cav owners are the best company! But wait, there's more! ;) If you are on Facebook, here's a video that maybe catches the entire scene! We can't say Thank You enough! If you didn't make it, but can contribute, here's the event donation link.