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At Cavalier Rescue of Florida, including far North and South Florida, and throughout the state, our dogs come from a variety of locations and reasons. Some of our dogs are surrendered by their prior owners that can no longer care for the dog while others are found in shelters across the state. In reality, there are many ways a Cavalier comes to CRF. We also find them through: newspaper ads breeder releases abandonment, as strays puppy mill closures* *Cavaliers that go to auction are there as castoffs from a puppy mill. They might be no longer “producing” puppies, or are sick, or maybe that puppy mill is closing down. For this reason and others, we get all colors, ages of the breed – Blenheims, Black and Tans, Rubies and Tri-colors. Many are purebreds, some are mixes, many are seniors. CRF doesn’t DNA test; we cannot guarantee the purity of the breed. Whatever the reason, CRF has a special donation fund, My Ticket Home, where we pull the funds that enable us to go in and scoop up as many Cavaliers as we can, no matter their condition and give them a second-chance. Our goal is to stop the inhumane treatment of these dogs and responsibly vet, rehabilitate and place a Cavalier in the best home for each one. My Ticket Home is funded by caring donors, such as you. If you would like to specifically donate to that fund, please click here. Love, the Cavies! XO

Is my pup’s scratching SM? 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/.

There are some non-profits with multi-million dollar CEO salaries, so it’s more than fair to ask.  Cavalier Rescue of Florida is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) rescue, so no one is paid anything.  Which makes us very effective.  In fact, 91 cents of every dollar go to the cost of vetting the pups, a standard few non-profits ever achieve. But what, exactly, do we do?  When we get word of a dog in need, the Intake team goes to work, coordinating with the Transport team and Foster team, who together get volunteers to take the dog from the relinquishing party to the foster home that can keep them through their evaluation and vetting.  Once the dog is healthy and ready for a home, the Adoption Placement team looks for their fur-ever home. Our guiding principle is doing what’s best for the pup.  We have to find a match for the dog’s needs.  And with so many rescue dogs being seniors or having health concerns and even traumas, we are very careful in placement.  Our volunteers evaluate a potential adopter.  We call their vet and check references.  We do a home visit.  We weigh how well we have a match for the dog’s fur-ever home. Most rescues are with us two to three months, some longer, because we are extraordinarily particular about giving them a thorough vetting.  All that while living with one of our many loving fosters, in a home, not a pen.  Pups often see specialists, maybe a cardiologist, ophthalmologist, or neurologist.  We spend an average of nearly $3,000 per dog on vetting, though adoption fees are a small fraction of that. We hope you can see, rescue is a challenging prospect.  But you know, the reward is truly special when, together, we can bring that pup back to her best health and put her in the arms of the perfect home. Cavalier Rescue of Florida is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) rescue, organized to benefit Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in need.  For 24 years now, Cavalier Rescue of Florida, Inc. (CRF), has saved hundreds of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, placing them in loving homes.  www.CavRescueFl.org

There is nothing more regal or beautiful than Blenheim, Black and Tan, Ruby and Tri-color Cavalier (or two) trotting down the sidewalk…feathery tail swishing along, silky coat shining and a spirited gait… so lovely. However, the type of leash in important to note. Retractable leashes are popular, but Cavalier Rescue of Florida does not condone retractable leashes as there are a lot of problems related to safety and training: 1. If a dog runs to the end of the retractable leash the leash can break and your pup can get away or end up in dangerous situations. If it doesn’t break, small breeds, like our sweet and curious Cavalier King Charles Spaniels could suffer severe neck injury from suddenly being stopped after running (chasing squirrels or lizards). 2. Retractable leashes get tangled around pups’ and peoples’ legs creating a tripping hazard and/or causing injuries from the leash scraping on people’s legs. 3. Owners have less control over their dog when using a retractable leash. Dogs can dart into traffic or into another person’s path when the dog is too far from their person. Pups can get into other dogs’ or cats’ spaces and cause stress to other animals or even initiate fights. Think, small spaces such as a veterinarian’s office. Dogs learn to pull on a retractable leash allowing more leash to go out to the dog vs. trained and walking beside their human. Our fosters not only work on rehabilitation and medical attention for our rescue pups, but work on good habits, potty training, socialization and walking on a leash! A proper harness and leash is best for safety and training success! Love, the Cavies! Xo

There’s a wonderful event that we want to be sure you’re aware of – Cavie Fest! Organized by Debbie Penta, it will be in Bicentennial Park in Oldsmar (on the shore of Old Tampa Bay) from 11 to 2. And, most amazingly, Debbie is donating all proceeds to Cavalier Rescue of Florida.  Thank you Debbie! She has a growing list of handmade products for sale, health services onsite, a photographer at a CRF Kissing Booth, a raffle, and probably 100 pups (Cavs only please). Having just learned of this, we’ve scrambled to assist and CRF volunteers will be there with giveaways and shirts for sale. Cavie Fest is on FaceBook on the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels of Florida page (you’ll need to join) then see the Event page.

Short answer:  Pretty much.  But let’s take a closer look and what does that mean for us as our pup’s adoring fan? So, what exactly is color blindness?  In essence it describes an inability to distinguish between colors or even to see some colors at all.  It’s caused by the eye missing some photoreceptors, which are color-detecting molecules. Now it was long thought that our pups could only see shades of gray, but we have learned that this is not true.  For dogs, it’s very similar to colorblindness in humans, though there are other visual issues at play too.  It’s estimated that 4.5% of humans have some degree of being colorblind, an inherited genetic trait that is more common in men.   We’ll note here that all dogs are. The most common human form of this is red-green color blindness, meaning they cannot see those colors.  This is also what we understand dogs to see (or not see).  They are, therefore, great at seeing shades of blues and yellows (as well as white and gray), but don’t really recognize red and green at all (they just appear as shades of gray to brown). So that red ball we thought was so cool is way more likely to get lost in the grass than a yellow one.  Maybe most immediately it means we should be leaning toward yellow and blue toys and forgetting the red and green ones.  You might even notice Trixie’s toy preferences to lean in those directions. Yet there are other differences in how a dog perceives the world visually from us.  Our pups also can’t see quite as clearly and don’t differentiate brightness as well.  It suggests that their vision is a bit fuzzy and duller. But canine vision is superior in detecting motion and can also see better in low light conditions.  There are even apps and websites that roughly simulate a dog’s vision. Here’s Flynn on a porch with Christmas lights taken with the Apple compatible app Dog Optics ($0.99 on the app store).  See how the red and green disappear? What you see . . . . . . Something like your pup sees So, our fur babies lose a little of the color brilliance we know.  Yet let’s remember that while we may see some of this as a disadvantage, we have to remember their superpowered nose, so they have a world of sensations that we don’t.  Not to mention those supreme capacities to stay present in the moment and radiate the love that make them our perfect companions!

"They deserve to have families that will treat them with love and kindness,” she said. “As each one came through our door, I gently told them, ‘Your life just got better.’ ” We rarely turn away a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, regardless of age or health; it’s sad that so many beautiful purebred pups find themselves in a rescue situation. Situations change... Job loss causes financial crisis. New job means out-of-Florida travel or a long commute within Florida. Moving into a new living arrangement where your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would not be welcome. Health issues for you or a family member resulting in not enough time, resources or strength to properly care for your Blenheim, Black and Tan, Ruby and Tri-color Cavalier. Or, your Cavalier has developed a health issue or breed-specific disease too difficult to manage because of time or money. Whatever the reason, we understand. Cavalier Rescue of Florida will help you rehome your beloved Cavalier; we almost never turn away a Cavie, regardless of age or health. Each rescue pup will be placed in loving foster homes where they will be observed, cuddled, vetted and their health issues will be addressed. They will have shelter, medicines, vet visits, food, lots of love and be readied for a second chance at happiness for their adoption. The priority of CRF is always to do what is best for the needs of the dog. We will review age, situation and temperament to find the perfect match and fur-ever family with a loving home for your couch potato, cuddle bug or lizard chaser. Love, the Cavies! XO

HEARTWORM PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS Did you know Heartworms can cause lasting damage to the heart and impact a dog’s quality of life? In fact, heartworms can be deadly and more than one million dogs currently have heartworm disease. Luckily, we don’t see too many heartworm positive pups in Rescue, the treatment is rigorous and difficult. That’s why we remind you for great Cavalier care that regular check-ups and heartworm preventive care are essential. The more you know... xoxo It’s our objective to assist in educating you so your CavalierKing Charles Spaniel and all pets can live their longest and healthiest life possible. The following information is shared with you so that you can research the effects of several popular preventatives on the market today, widely recommended by veterinary professionals. If you use or have used any of these products, we urge you to review the information contained within these links. We, at Cavalier Rescue of Florida, we are not veterinarians, but our goal is to arm you with information so that you can be an advocate for your dog’s well-being and health. Before we adopt, we treat all our Blenheim, Black and Tan, Ruby and Tri-color Cavies with preventive measures and/or lifesaving treatments when needed. Our dedicated volunteers and fosters donate their time and are committed to their best practices to assure these pups a puppily-ever after! Heartworm and Intestinal Parasite Prevention We recommend that an adult be at home with your dog for (at least) the first 6 hours after administering preventatives in the event of a reaction, especially if a preventative is given for the first time. Heartworm Prevention Interceptor (box color corresponds to weight range of dog; i.e. Green Flavor Tabs – 11 to 25 lbs.) Heartgard (box color corresponds to weight range of dog; i.e. Blue – Up to 25 lbs.) Heartgard Plus (box color corresponds to weight range of dog; i.e. Blue – Up to 25 lbs.) Tri-Heart Plus (1-800-PetMeds generic to Heartgard) Combo Heartworm + Flea Prevention Sentinel Green Flavor Tabs – 11 – 25 pounds (also prevents development of flea eggs) * Love, the Cavies! XO * Sentinel should NOT be used in combination with other flea/tick products like Comfortis, Frontline, or Advantage. It is an all-in-one heart worm and flea product, so you do NOT use HeartGard, Interceptor, or generic heart worm products with Sentinel.

2024 has blown away all previous quarters as CRF took in more dogs than ever, nearly tripling last year’s pace!  And with many of them being neglected dogs, our vetting costs are also at record levels.  It leaves us in dire need of your financial support . . . . . . and yes, begging for your help. Most of Q1 saw thirty-plus dogs being fostered on any given day, with dogs coming (intake) and going (adoptions) almost daily, stressing every aspect of our group. We’ll spare you the heart-breaking stories of the just unthinkable condition that too many of these Cavaliers came to us in, especially the puppy mill rescues.  Even the surrendered pups, maybe arriving as their owner went to the nursing home, had forgotten health issues.  We spent over $73,000 taking care of the dogs, and more bills are yet to come. That’s all vetting costs.  Our volunteers, the angels that they are, contribute out of their own pockets.  Fosters buy the dog food and take care of them without reimbursement.  Transport volunteers drive thousands of miles every month, all without as much as gas money. Our core team puts in over a thousand hours monthly and not one is paid.  Being all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit allows us to put 91 cents of every dollar to the costs at the veterinarian.  That’s an extraordinary accomplishment that few non-profits ever achieve. Pretty Please? And the pups, with nowhere to go, often scared and needing attention . . . we just have to take them in. When they come, we treat them as if they were our dog.  We thoroughly vet them; bloodwork, vaccines, meds, dental surgery, spay/neuter surgery, the whole shebang, whatever they need. Cardiology appointments, Neurology visits, Ophthalmology checks.  Most are with us for 2 or 3 months, a few for a year. And, oh, our volunteers!  We can’t say enough about our blessed volunteers.  The personal sacrifices with seemingly endless 12-hour days some of them tendered.  Cavalier Rescue of Florida has grown, but our staffing hasn’t kept up.  So, by the way, we’re recruiting volunteers. Can we have our dogs do tricks for you? We never know when another dog, or dozen from a puppy mill, may come in, but we have to be ready.  The pandemic puppies that found that their owners weren’t dog people after all may be subsiding (yeah, we have to bite our tongue sometimes, but we still take the dog). The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the sweetest and gentlest of breeds, too often especially here in Florida, find themselves in need. We can’t say no.  Can you? C’mon, we’ll be your best friend . . . My heart overflows with gratitude for all of you, our Angels! Thank you for your kindness, caring, and for supporting CRF. Tracy Baker, Executive Director & Chief Pup Officer Alternately, you can donate with PayPal

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

They’re both great organizations that rescue pets who need a safe place for cats, dogs, and other animals to be taken care of while they find their new home. While people use the term “rescue” and “shelter” interchangeably, there are many differences when it comes to the terms. Animal Shelters Shelters (animal control) are typically funded at the town, city, or state level. Pups are housed in a kennel, minimal comforts, lots of noise and barking. Staff consists of paid workers and volunteers to provide care for the animals Sadly, many shelters may euthanize animals due to shelter over-capacity Medical treatment and caring of the animals initially will need to be done by the adopter which can pose a great challenge without knowing the animal’s health and medical history. Animal rescues, like Cavalier Rescue of Florida, are similar to animal shelters in that they protect unhoused animals. Rescues are volunteer-run, non-profit 501(c)(3) with no government funding or grants. Rescues run out of private volunteer homes, no public buildings with kennels. These pups are rehabilitated and socialized in “the big bed” for bedtime, on cozy couches, with lots of toys, freedom to run around, cuddle time and with all the comforts of a home. Rescue organizations don’t typically have paid positions and funded solely by the person or the organization’s own money as well as any public donations. Benefits The benefits of rescue are plentiful! For animal shelters and rescues, the top benefit of adopting an animal is that you’re saving the animal—providing a second chance at life. Cavalier Rescue of Florida takes great care of our rescue Cavies with full medical vetting, treatment, care, socialization, and lots of love. We love this breed, so we are very careful with the adoption process and finding forever homes. Rescues like CRF, bond with their animals, so they’re more selective when it comes to the people who are adopting them. Most rescues do not have over-populated facilities and are able to care for each animal on a personal, “at home” basis. Importantly, this also means all health and any medically related problems are addressed and treated before they go to their new loving home for their second chance at happiness. Rescue organizations, like CRF, are careful about their pups’ needs, so the adoption application / process may take longer than an animal shelter. Many rescue organizations do not have a public location but by-appointment-only after the adopter(s) is approved for adoption. Rescue organizations like CRF will make sure our Blenheim, Black and Tan, Ruby and Tri-color cavaliers are pampered by their foster families and 100% clear to go home to their “fur-ever families.” Many rescues, like CRF, are breed specific, providing superb knowledge and details about the breed personality, characteristics and well-being. Purebred pups are readily available through this option and there are Rubies, Blenheims, Tri-Color, and rare, Black and Tan. Plus, once-in-awhile, a puppy, many seniors, bonded pairs and every age in-between. You also have the advantage of being able to consult Cavalier Rescue during and after the adoption. Often times, our adopters will keep in touch with new photos, and anything they want to sure which we absolutely love! Love, the Cavies! Xo

During American Heart Month, make a pledge to help take care of your pup's heart health & wellness protocols. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, as a breed, are prone to mitral valve disease... Cavalier Rescue of Florida reminds you of the following: A balanced diet for a healthy weight is the best way to prevent heart disease. Most healthy dogs should get at least 30 minutes of brisk physical activity every day. Regular heartworm prevention is crucial to avoid medical issues from heartworms. CRF encourages Board Certified veterinary cardiologists to do complete cardiac evaluation & echocardiogram when a dog has a murmur grade of 4 or a significant change from one vet visit to the next. Low murmur grades are manageable with proper treatment. Annual exam /early detection is vital to managing the disease; delay progression of heart disease; providing the best quality of care; and prolonging a pet’s life. Adopters and Forever Homes are critical for continuing this wellness practice for their cavaliers. Progressive heart disease due to degenerative valve disease can result in the onset of congestive heart failure (fluid build up in the lungs). Symptoms can include: Cough Labored breathing Exercise intolerance Fainting Check out this site for cavalier-centric wellness information, health tips, Cavie specific ailments, sources for specialists and caregivers and more! Cheers to good heart health for all of our Blenheims, Black and Tans, Rubies and Tri-colors: CavalierHealth.org For more specialists in your area: http://www.vetspecialists.com/ https://www.acvim.org/ Love, the Cavies! Xo

Pet Dental Health Month is a "biting" reminder that our cavies’ teeth need attention, too. Dental checks are important and maintaining Cavalier dental health significantly prevents oral problems they may have in the future. Just as it is for people, preventative dental care is critical for your pet’s overall health. Getting your Cavalier’s teeth cleaned is not only to keep them pearly white! Cavalier Recue of Florida recommends good dental hygiene. A professional dental cleaning for your Blenheims, Black and Tans, Rubies and Tri-colors removes not only the visible plaque and tartar on the teeth surfaces but also the bacteria under the gums. This eliminates potential sources of infection to the mouth and other organs and helps prevent progressive dental disease. Our recent Baker’s Dozen breeder rescue of 12 Cavaliers was a cautionary tale of not proactively maintaining good dental health. Every rescued Cavie needed extensive dental work—they had infected, broken, loose teeth and severe gum disease… poor Graham had 18 extractions! Most of this extreme dental work could have been avoided with preventative care. Dental work, like all veterinary fees, is expensive. His dental surgery (full mouth x-rays, scaling, polishing and extractions) was the most expensive in CRF history. Regular preventative dental cleanings prevent: Excessive tartar accumulation and gum inflammation (gingivitis) Loose or diseased teeth/gums (periodontal disease) Oral pain Bad breath (halitosis) Secondary organ damage (heart, kidneys, liver) Worsening dental disease Many veterinarians report that toy dogs are some of the most common clients when it comes to chronic bad breath. Cavaliers and small breeds are also prone to tooth decay and gum diseases. Plaque and tartar tend to build up quickly in smaller mouths and should be addressed. Please remember to brush or wipe your pet’s teeth several times a week and consider an approved dental treat daily. Baby toothbrushes are options for brushing Cavie teeth or use a face cloth with doggie toothpaste to gently wipe away tartar and massage gums. Dental health and home care is related to heart health; keep your pup healthy by removing excess bacteria. It’s easier to start this routine as puppies, vs. seniors. When it develops, dental disease can have a negative impact on other vital organs such as the heart, liver, lungs and kidneys. Say cheese and stay healthy! Love, the Cavies! Xo

New Year, New You resolutions typically include fitness goals, Celebrating Walk Your Dog Month is a perfect time to blend exercise with bonding time for you and your pup. Get up off that sofa, get moving, and don’t let those “Florida cold fronts” keep you inside! Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need plenty of exercise throughout the year and the best way to keep them active is to take them for regular walks. Even a short walk around the block makes a big difference. Cavalier Rescue of Florida recommends regular walks and exercise to help control your pup’s weight and limit the chances of them becoming overweight. The main remedy for overweight pups in our foster care is walking and moderate food… and no treats. Slow and steady wins the race. The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention released a clinical study in 2017, stating that 56% of dogs in the U.S. are obese. That equates to over 50 million dogs across the country. A statement declared that “Clinical obesity results in more secondary conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and certain forms of cancer. Pups with obesity also have reduced quality of life and shorter life expectancy.” Luckily for us, Florida is green all year long and being out in nature for pups and humans has many benefits, including improved attention, lower stress and better mood. Humans have 5-6 million scent receptors in our noses, but dogs have up to 300 million. In fact, a dog’s sense of smell is 10,000 times greater than a human! So, allow plenty of time to “stop and smell the flowers” during your walk. Benefits of walking: Physical Wellness Regular walks are a great way for both you and your Blenheim, Ruby, Tri-Color or Black and Tan to stay in shape and help with overall health. Healthier Cavies mean fewer trips to the “dogtor”! Walking helps maintain a healthy weight, get better sleep, keep joints healthy, and can even help regulate the digestive system. Mindful Health Walks provide the mental stimulation your dog needs and not only exercise the body, but exercise the mind too! Your Cavie will be wagging their tail over all the exciting things they see during their walks—from lizards, squirrels, other dogs, sniffing everything their hearts desire, and, of course, all the people who will pass them by while telling them how cute they are. Builds Trust & Confidence Establishing a regular walking routine will help build your rescue Cavie’s trust. Knowing they have their daily walk with you is reassuring and exciting for them. As you and your dog explore and experience different situations during your walk, your pup will gain confidence knowing that you are by their side for support and enduring love. Reduces Bad Behavior We know Cavaliers are more cuddle bugs and snuggling snoozers without the tendency towards destructive behavior, but when not stimulated enough, or still settling into their furever families, dogs, including puppies and seniors, are more likely to chew on items that are not toys or bark more. Walks are a healthy way to help them release any excess energy. Then back to snoring and snoozing… Mingling and “Meet-Cute!” It’s likely that you’ll run into other dog owners and dog lovers on your walks. This is a wonderful opportunity to socialize your dog and have them safely meet other people and pups. Grab the leash and go for a walk!

At the time of year when we reflect on a story of “no room at the inn” we ask, is there anything better than the gift of pure love? Cavalier Rescue of Florida provides love, shelter and care for all of our precious rescues, but above all, we want them all to have happiness, love and a fur-ever family of their own. We love sharing the delights and successes of all of our sweet Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, yet every once in a while, a pup comes along with such a profoundly moving story of love. Carter is one such pup, despite his special needs, he thrived in love and life with his angel adopters. You might recall we shared this beautiful story last month, but there is no greater joy than regaling his beautiful and bittersweet story of a life well loved… From his mom: “We rescued Carter from CRF in May of 2019. Every day was an adventure with him including our first day together traveling from Florida to Massachusetts: a commercial flight mishap left us stranded, so my husband flew down in a private plane to rescue both of us 🛩️! Carter loved every minute of flying in style. Carter quickly made himself at home, and his two “brothers” Marley (Blenheim) and Calvin (ruby) 🐶🐶welcomed him with open paws. There were a lot of snuggle sessions, and Marley (a senior the same age as Carter), quickly became Carter’s best fur-friend and guide. We were in awe of Carter’s ability to adapt, he was able to map our entire first floor 🏠 in just a few days and knew exactly where his food and water dishes were located, and most importantly, where my desk was located so that he could spend his days sleeping on my lap 😴 while I worked. There was no limit to the amount of love we could give him, and our days were spent making sure he knew just how much he was loved and cared for in his new home, and he happily soaked up each and every moment. 💜 Carter was such a special boy who knew no limits to his “special needs.” He did everything his brothers did, including one of his favorite activities: hiking! Nothing made him smile like being outside with the sunshine ☀️ on his face. To this day, any time we’re outside we stop and turn our faces to the sun and reminisce about what a sweet and loving boy Carter was, and how the sunshine is him smiling down on us. He also gave the BEST hugs! A few fun personality traits about Carter… he had two speeds: he was either jumping over logs and constantly in motion 💨, or he was sawing logs 😴 and snoring so loud he would wake us all up. Also, he was as stubborn as they came! There was no stopping him once he set his mind on something, Carter was King 👑 of the house. If he wanted it, he got it - and that is exactly how life of a senior special needs rescue should be! He also experienced snow for the first time (we can only assume), and it was so funny watching him navigate it and try to eat it ❄️! While he didn’t have eyes 👀, his eyebrows were incredibly expressive and you could tell immediately what he was thinking with his facial expressions. Sadly, Carter’s health started deteriorating last fall, and in March 2023 we had to make the very difficult decision to help him cross the rainbow bridge 🌈 It’s taken me several tries to write about him, as each time my eyes well up with tears. Not a day goes by that we don’t think about him and reminisce about what a special boy he was, he captured the hearts of everyone he met. 💜 We will forever be grateful to CRF and his foster family for entrusting us with his care and for giving us the opportunity to shower him with love and fur-ever home as his angel adopters.” 😇 Merry Christmas to all! Love, the Cavies xoxo

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 Rescue of Florida loves the holidays! Beautiful festive plants play a prominent role in holiday decor. If you are planning to bring holiday foliage into your home this season, you will need to understand which plants are safe or not. In some cases, only mild indigestion and discomfort will result; in other cases, the toxicity can lead to more severe health problems, and even fatalities. Amaryllis The beauty of the flowering Amaryllis is only matched by its toxicity, which cause salivation, gastrointestinal abnormalities, lethargy and tremors. The bulb of the plant is reputed to be even more dangerous than the flowers and stalk. Amaryllis should be kept clear from our Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and maybe out of the house, if you have cats, too. Poinsettias Thriving both inside and outside in the South Florida climate, poinsettia’s brightly colored leaves contain a sap that is irritating to the tissues of the mouth and esophagus. If the leaves are ingested, they will often cause nausea and vomiting. It is best to keep poinsettias out of reach of Cavies. Holly and Mistletoe Holly and mistletoe are also popular holiday plants. These plants, along with their berries, have a greater toxicity level than the poinsettia. Mistletoe contains multiple substances that are toxic to both dogs and cats. Keep kissing your Blenheim, Ruby, Tri-color and Black and Tan pups- who needs mistletoe for that? Christmas Cactus Fortunately, the Christmas Cactus plant is not toxic to dogs in either its parts or flowers. However, fibrous plant material can cause irritation to the stomach and intestine, leading to vomiting or diarrhea. Curious Cavies, may be injured by the spines, so these plants should still be kept out of pets’ reach. O, Christmas Tree! There are other dangers to consider with the tree that go beyond lights and ornaments. If your pup chews on the branches, the oils produced by fir trees can be irritating to a pet's mouth and stomach, causing excessive vomiting or drooling. The tree needles may cause gastrointestinal irritation, obstruction and punctures. Additionally, the water used to nourish Christmas trees can be noxious causing your pup to become extremely sick with only a few laps of water. Keep the water covered and blocked off to prevent access to mischievous temptations. Keep the holidays safe, fun and festive! Be very careful about where you place your plants and if your pup does ingest any part of these holiday plants, call your veterinarian or poison control immediately to find out what you should do. The phone number for the ASPCA Poison Control is 1-888-426-4435, 24 hours a day. Love, the Cavies! Xo

Be an Older Dog’s Hero… Practically perfect in every way! If you are considering adopting a senior dog, you likely not only want a wonderful companion, but also want to transform the life of a pup in need. Older dogs are too often overlooked by potential adopters at shelters and rescues. However, those who adopt seniors find them to be wonderful companions — more mellow, better mannered, and quicker to adjust to their new homes than younger pooches. Soooo full of love... they are just grateful to be with you. Whether you have been considering adopting an older pup for a long time or were just recently inspired by the story of one in need, your new, grey-muzzled, Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tan best friend may be a hop, skip, and a few hugs away. Most shelters and rescue organizations list dogs over seven years of age as "senior." Although the time you will have with an adopted senior dog may be shorter, your life will be forever enriched and you will have the honor and joy of being part of their final adventures. I am not crying, you're crying.... A big advantage to adopting an experienced dog—say, age 5 or 6 and up—is you are far more likely to be first in line for that dog. Cavalier Rescue of Florida tells applicants who want a young dog that they may wait months. But applicants who are open to a seasoned Cavalier often can get matched right away—and for a considerably lower adoption fee. LOTS of love and joy with senior pure-bred and very adoptable cavaliers. Rescue groups are constantly taking in middle-aged or senior dog because a Cavalier’s typical lifespan of 12-15 years­– a long time. A lot can change…people switch jobs, lose jobs, encounter financial difficulties, get deployed, get married or divorced, move, have kids, get sick, and sadly, even pass away. In today’s world, people have a much better chance of providing stability and love to a dog for five years than for 15, paying-it-forward for a pup’s second chance of love and happiness. ​ On those rare occasions when CRF gets rescue pups under a year old, we are deluged with adoption applications. But, forever families are not prepared for the amount of work a puppy is. Benefits of a senior Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Puppies are like human babies requiring a lot of time, attention and energy. They are not housebroken and will likely have many accidents before learning to control themselves. They cry when they are not getting enough attention. They need to be constantly entertained. They rarely do what you want them to do. A mature Cavalier is: Almost always completely housebroken. Infinitely trainable. It’s not true that you can’t teach an older dog new tricks--older Cavaliers are calm and want to please you, and thus easier to train. Comparatively calm and easygoing. Playful but just fine with a lower activity level. Polite and well-mannered in your home. Far less inclined to chew or destroy your possessions Predictable in a good way. More interested in love and companionship than activity. Eager to please and focused on you. Always a beautiful and dignified breed, even more so in twilight years. Endearing and easy to love. Exactly what you need—and vice versa! “Old dogs can be a regal sight. Their exuberance settles over the years into a seasoned nobility, their routines become as locked into yours as the quietest and kindest of marriages.” – Gail Caldwell Love, the Cavies! Xo

If the spaniels are built for royalty, that means the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is king. This regal toy spaniel dates back to the Renaissance, where King Charles I and his son Charles II were particularly fond of the breed. Eventually, the cavalier was dubbed after their namesake. Well into the 19th century, purebred cavaliers were a favorite among British aristocrats, and they bred different varieties of this special breed. The Blenheim, Ruby Tri-Color or Black and Tan’s medium-long luscious coat and silky, feathery ears signal royalty. The toy spaniel’s sweet expression with large, round eyes and noble demeanor looks best with regular brushing and bathing. Keeping this breed at their elegant, tangle-free best calls for a little time and some routine upkeep. All of the Cavies at CRF are very deserving of their spa days! It’s time for your pup to strut their royal stuff. Cavalier Rescue of Florida offers these guidelines about grooming a cavalier. Looking pristine is easy when it comes to the cavalier’s glossy coat. However, if you want your dog to really shine, a daily 10-minute brush-out is a must to keep them looking their best. With a medium bristle brush. Brush around the ears (gently) and skirts before brushing all the fringe. Brushing pulls out the dead hair, helps stimulate the natural oils in their skin, making their coat shine the coat should lie flat and feel soft. Be extra careful when brushing out the ears, as this is a sensitive area. A cavalier’s hair naturally provides a soft wave that can sometimes lead to tangles. The back of the legs and under the tail are the areas that will most likely get matted first, so take extra time to brush those areas out for a thorough and fresh look. Baths helps freshen & keep the coat healthy. When it’s time to bathe your cavalier, remember: once a month is more than enough. Too much bathing removes the natural skin oils that make your dog shine. It can also lead to dry or irritated skin. We love their Grinchy paws--but, pad trimming is essential for injury-free feet, especially for seniors! Hair grows quickly on the bottom of the pup's paws, between the pads of the toes. To avoid your Cavalier slipping on Florida tile and wood floors, trim the hair weekly regularly for better traction & stability. Good grooming and hygiene, including tooth care starts when they are a puppy! Love, the Cavies! Xo