Resources

Our Resources page offers a comprehensive list of resources, including professional dog trainers, for anyone interested in dogs. You will find useful information here whether you are a pet owner, volunteer at a rescue organization, a prospective adopter for a rescued Collie or Sheltie, an adopter or foster family working with a puppy mill survivor, or someone looking for an apartment where pets are accepted. Please browse through the entire list before you move on! In addition, if you know of an important and relevant resource that is not included, please email us the link and a description.

What To Look for in a Rescue Group (from “Dog Fancy”)

Reputable, responsible, and reliable rescue groups:

  • are staffed by experienced volunteers
  • operate as nonprofits, although they may not have official 501(c)3 status
  • require a written adopter application with a veterinary reference, if available
  • require an inspection of your home
  • bathe and groom the dogs they take in
  • provide basic veterinary care (an examination and shots) prior to placement
  • spay or neuter all dogs they place
  • provide full disclosure about a dog’s medical condition and behavior
  • provide ongoing support, if needed, as the adopter and dog adjust to each other
  • will always take back a dog if the placement does not work out

National Collie and Sheltie Organizations/Rescue Organizations

American Shetland Sheepdog Association

The American Shetland Sheepdog Association is an excellent source of information regarding the Shetland Sheepdog. If you are thinking about a Sheltie as a companion, read “Looking for a Sheltie” to find out if the breed is right for you.

American Working Collie Association

The American Working Collie Association is dedicated to promoting the working ability of the Collie.  Originally bred as a working stock dog, the Collie has developed a wide range of talents. The Association's Versatility Program recognizes Collies that have proven their competence as versatile working dogs.

Collie Club of America

The Collie Club of America publishes a listing of Collie Rescue contacts, which is issued by the Club's Committee for Welfare and Rescue. The list contains contact information for rescues in the United States and England. The U.S. information is organized by state.

Collie Club of Colorado

A specialty breed club licensed by the American Kennel Club, the members of the Collie Club of Colorado are committed to the protection and advancement of the Collie breed. The Club also promotes the exhibition and training of purebred Collies.

Collie Rescue Foundation

RMCSR is a member of the Collie Rescue Foundation, which was established to promote and assist in the rescue of purebred Collies. The Foundation’s primary goals are to provide emergency funding to rescues, provide education on responsible pet ownership, and offer guidelines for adoption of rescue Collies.

Dog Owners Guide: The Collie

An online magazine for all pet and show dog owners, the Guide offers an informative and helpful guide on the Collie breed with links to unusual “Dogwise” books.

Dog Owners Guide: The Sheltie

An online magazine for all pet and show dog owners, the Guide offers an informative and helpful guide on the Shetland Sheepdog breed with links to unusual “Dogwise” books.

National Sheltie Rescue Network

The National Sheltie Rescue Network is a non-profit organization that helps Shetland Sheepdogs in need throughout the country. The network supports different rescue groups in each state, and provides a listing of the groups nationwide.

Sheltie Nation Rescue

The best way to find your perfect Sheltie is through a rescue organization dedicated to the breed. This site includes an extensive listing of Sheltie rescue groups, by state, as well as information about the breed.

Top of Page

Pet Rescue Organizations and Pet Information/Advice Sites

Adopt-A-Pet

Want to adopt a dog, cat, rabbit, hamster or some other pet? Adopt-A-Pet can help you. Click on the search button, type in your zip code, add a distance to search, the breed, the sex, the size, the color, or the age of the pet you want to find, and hit "Fetch Now." The website will bring up pictures and information of selected animals in your search area that need homes. RMCSR lists their dogs on this site. 

Animal Shelter

This site provides a link to animal shelters and rescue groups for most states in the USA.

ASPCA

Founded in 1866, the ASPCA was the first humane organization in the Western Hemisphere. Its mission, as stated by founder Henry Bergh, is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.” The ASPCA works to rescue animals from abuse, pass humane laws and share resources with shelters nationwide.

Best Friends Animal Society

Best Friends runs the nation's largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals, as well as lifesaving programs in collaboration with its nationwide network of members and partners working to Save Them All.

Colorado Animal Rescue Express (C.A.R.E.)

Twice a week, C.A.R.E. provides the safe transportation of dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in Colorado and neighboring states that are going to rescue groups or adoptive homes. C.A.R.E. works with over 110 rescue organizations (including RMCSR) who commit to taking the homeless animals into foster care for proper assessment and placement.   Through Jake’s Funds, C.A.R.E. helps with veterinary expenses, spay/neuter assistance, and food/supplies to shelter and rescue animals.

Complete Dogs Guide Resources

The Complete Dogs Guide provides a variety of information about dogs such as names, psychology, grooming, rescuing, breeds, groupings and stories. The Guide ncludes directories of rescue centers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Ireland, and specific breed rescue organizations.

National Mill Dog Rescue

The mission of the National Mill Dog Rescue is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home discarded breeding dogs and to educate the general public about the cruel realities of the commercial dog breeding industry.

Petfinder

Petfinder is an online, searchable database of animals that need homes. It is also a directory of almost 8,000 animal shelters and adoption organizations across the USA and Canada. The website includes classified ads, discussion forums and a library of animal welfare articles, and is updated daily. RMCSR posts their adoptable dogs on this site.

PetRescue
PetRescue is a small, non-profit animal rescue organization located in central Florida that provides information on a variety of subjects, such as finding lost animals, the tragedy of "free to a good home" advertising, and pet health matters.

Spirit of Deaf Dogs Colorado

Spirit of Deaf Dogs Colorado is not a rescue organization, but rather, a resource for owners of deaf dogs,  addressing training issues and sign language for dogs, and provides an opportunity for owners of "deafies" to meet and network with other owners of deaf dogs.

The PetWork

The PetWork features links to animal shelters, humane societies, rescue groups, pet-assisted therapy programs and hospice, low-cost and free spay/neuter programs, financial aid programs for pet care, pet loss support services, veterinarians, animal hospitals and other pet-related resources. New listings are added daily.

 Dog Training

Rebecca Blackbyrd, 303-506-3879, website. Rebecca is an animal communicator who helps people make conscious and conflict decisions for their animal companions during times of transition, illness and end-of-life. Rebecca does in-home visits as well as phone communications sessions. She has worked extensively with RMCSR.

Laura Brody, of Good Dog Training, has moved to Washington. However, if you live in the South Denver metro area, you can contact her protege, Robin Brown, of Positive Pup Training! Her phone is 720-607-3977, website. Laura is a certified Pet Dog Trainer, member of Victoria Stillwell’s Positively Dog Training Team, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator with AKC, and Graduate of Animal Behavior College. Laura has donated her expertise to several breed rescues including RMCSR. She does private in-home sessions as well as group classes.

Red Johnson, 303-757-4492, email. Red offers beginner, intermediate and advanced classes, Mantayo Kennels . Red has 4 dogs that she runs in the Excellent Class for both AKC and DOCNA. She donates one free class to any adopter of RMCSR at the time of adoption. She has been very supportive of RMCSR.

Troy Mills, 303-521-7605, website. Troy is certified from the Animal Behavior College, a member of Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and a Certified Nose Work Instructor. Troy works with many rescues including RMCSR. He will do a free evaluation for a foster dog.

Ed Russell, 719-778-1302 (Luv “N” Care Dog Training & Pet Sitting). A graduate from the Animal Behavioral College, Ed is a certified trainer. Ed and his wife Irene are also members of Pet Sitters International. Ed can introduce your puppy to the new world, offers obedience classes for all ages, has unique solutions to problems, offers advance shaping for particular objectives, and best of all, he comes to your house if you live in or near the Pueblo area. If you want your dog to earn his or her Canine Good Citizen certificate, Ed can help you through the 10 steps. In addition to training, Luv “N” Care offers daily walks, and will transport your pet to the vet/groomer if needed. Also, they will take care of your pet and your home during those times you must be away.

Jane Trude, 719-371-0361, Westcliffe, CO, email. Jane has been training and exhibiting dogs for over 30 years and has trained several dogs to AKC Excellent titles in Agility and Rally, and Utility in Obedience. Currently, Jane teaches classes in different levels of obedience, rally, and agility, in Westcliffe. She offers one free agility class and one free obedience class to new adopters of RMCSR. If you choose to continue training after your free sessions, Jane charges $10 per class.

Patti Yoensky, 303-766-7611, email. Patti is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer, Certified Behavior Consultant - Canine. Patti specializes in early puppy behavior management and teaches “clicker” training. She also does private lessons. Patti serves Castle Rock, Elizabeth, Franktown & Parker.

Top of Page

Health

American Heartworm Society

The mission of the AHS is to lead the veterinary profession and the public in the understanding of heartworm disease. Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the arteries of the lungs and occasionally in the right side of the heart in dogs, cats and other species of mammals, including wolves, foxes, ferrets, sea lions and (in rare instances) humans. Heartworms are classified as nematodes (roundworms) and are filarids, one of many species of roundworms. Dogs and cats of any age or breed are susceptible to infection, spread through mosquito bites. For additional detailed information, please visit the AHS website.

American Working Collie Association

The American Working Association publishes Important information and the latest research on Collies and drug sensitivity, particularly to certain pharmaceuticals in the treatment of heartworm and mites.

Animal Eye Care, LLC.

Animal Eye Care provides informational discussions about eye disease in domestic animals and a link to locate board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists in your area.

ASPCA Poison Control

ASPCA Poison Control is an excellent resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

Bloat - VCA Animal Hospital

VCA Animal Hospitals provide an explanation of this medical emergency, which results in death in approximately 25% of cases.

Collie Health Foundation

The Collie Health Foundation promotes appreciation and understanding of the diseases, defects, injuries and other ailments that afflict dogs in general and Collies in particular. The Foundation also sponsors medical research on Collie health problems, genetics, breeding and history.

Dangers of Xylitol Ingestion in Dogs - FDA

If your pet ingests sugar-free products like chewing gum, candy and baked goods that contain Xylitol, it can be life threatening. The FDA explains the danger Xylitol products pose for dogs.

Financial Assistance for Veterinary Care - Speaking for Spot

Speaking for Spot provides a list of organizations that may be able to provide some financial assistance paying for veterinary care. Many of them are specific in terms of the type of medical care they will cover.

First Aid Kits, Emergency Treatments, and Other Tips - Partnership for Animal Welfare

The Partnership for Animal Welfare offers animal first aid advice and kits. Many situations require fast and correct action to prevent further injury, infection or death; assemble a first aid kit now.

Foods That Can Be Poisonous to Pets - Humane Society

The Humane Society provides a list of fairly common “people” food that are dangerous and potentially lethal to your dog.

Gardening With Canine Assistance - Toxic Plants - Dog Owner's Guide

Are you gardening with canine assistance? Is your pet digging up possible toxins? The Dog Owner's Guide provides information on natural fertilizers and pesticides.

Handicapped Pets Foundation

Donates wheelchairs to pets with disabilities.

Multidrug Sensitivity in Dogs - Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Some dog breeds are more sensitive to certain drugs than other breeds to certain medicines. Collies and related breeds such as Border Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs, can have adverse reactions to drugs such as ivermectin and loperamide (Imodium). At Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine you can get your dog tested for drug sensitivity and keep up with the latest research.

Drug sensitivities result from a mutation in the multi-drug resistance gene (MDR1). This gene encodes a protein, P-glycoprotein, that is responsible for pumping many drugs and other toxins out of the brain. Dogs with the mutant gene cannot pump some drugs out of the brain as a normal dog would, which may result in abnormal neurologic conditions, which can result in illness requiring an extended hospital stay – or even death. Please refer to our page on Collie and Sheltie Health Concerns for important information on anti-heartworm drugs containing ivermectin, such as Heartguard, to which some Collies and Shelties are extremely sensitive.

Pet Medical Library - Veterinary Partner

VeterinaryPartner maintains an alphabetical listing of informational materials on some of the most common medical concerns for pet dogs and cats.

Resources for Handicapped Pets - Handicapped Pets 

If you care for an older, injured or disabled pet, the Handicapped Pets website will guide you to products, services, and support.

Top Ten Tips for a Poison Safe Household

NewPet shares ten tips from the ASCPA for a poison-safe household, plus information on other topics on dog health, including choosing a vet, preventative health, spay/neuter, immunizations, worm control, and dental care.

Top of Page

Helping, Rehabilitating, and Training Puppy Mill Dogs

Advice from RMSCR Volunteers and Adopters

Experienced RMCSR volunteers and adopters provide step-by-step advice on helping puppy mill dogs adjust to a happy life.

Caring for Unsocialized Mill Dogs - Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project

The Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project  is dedicated to ending the suffering in puppy mills through public education in Wisconsin, and offers advice on all aspects of helping puppy mill dogs.  “The damage done during years in the mill usually can be overcome, but it takes time and dedication.” This site also discusses the laws governing puppy mills, and what you can do to encourage your legislators to change those laws to better protect dogs and prevent further cruelty to those animals. 

Puppy Mill Rescue Dogs: Transition to Home Life - Best Friends Animal Society

Provides help with adopted puppy mill rescue dogs, including advice on create and house training, socialization, separation anxiety, gaining trust, and more.

Fearful Dogs

If you live with a fearful, shy, or anxious dog, Fearful Dogs provides information to help you be more effective in rehabilitating your dog. Find products, services, books, and other resources that are available to help with the process, including groups, message boards and websites that can offer support and advice.

Second Chance Sheltie Rescue

We recommend that you visit the Second Chance Sheltie Rescue site and order The Diary of Lucy Blue, A Puppy Mill Survivor's Story , the story of a puppy mill pup and her the successful rehabilitation with the  Rescue. This diary has become an icon in rescue, giving guidance and insight on taking care of animals abused by the Missouri puppy mill industry.

Other Resources and Information

K9-101 Dog Behavior - Mark Plonsky, PhD (Dr. P)

Dr. P's Dog Training Library places emphasis on what science has to say about dog behavior and training. It is a useful resource for pet owners, hobby trainers, professional trainers, scientists, veterinarians, police K9 handlers, and other students of canine behavior.

Dog Breeds - American Kennel Club

The American Kennel Club is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function, advocating for the purebred dog as a family companion, advancing canine health and well-being, working to protect the rights of all dog owners and promoting responsible dog ownership.

Dogs on Deployment

Dogs On Deployment is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit which provides a central online database for service members to search for individuals or families who are willing to welcome a Dog On Deployment into their home for the length of their owner’s deployment.

Dog Owner’s Guide

The Dog Owner's Guide provides information about choosing, raising, training, and caring for the family dog and dogs who compete in a variety of sports. This site features articles about shelters, rescue, and dogs and the law.

Foster Care for Dogs - Foster Dogs 

FosterDogs provides everything you need to know about fostering a dog.

Pet Friendly Apartments - Rent.com

Rent.com’s pet friendly housing finder can help relieve some of the stress of finding a new home that's open to your furry family members as well. You can search by city, state, or zip code and customize the search by selecting your price range plus the number of bedrooms you are looking for.

Search Pet Friendly Rentals - My Apartment Map

Find apartments that allow cats and dogs using My Apartment Map. The inability to find pet friendly housing is one of the leading causes of cat & dog abandonment. My Apartment Map has the largest list of currently available pet-friendly housing, and actively supports pet rescue organizations throughout the country. Please let people know about this pet friendly search engine.

Lost Dog Behavior - Missing Animal Response Network

The Missing Animal Response Network offers behavior-based lost pet recovery tips and referrals to lost pet services, and they are pioneers of cutting edge lost pet recovery techniques like pet detectives with search dogs, lost dog protests, window tagging to market lost dogs in a community, and motion activated wildlife cameras with feeding stations to detect and capture displaced/lost cats.

Mission Reunite

Mission Reunite is a nonprofit organization working to reunite lost pets with their families by providing free education for pet owners through their website. 

 

Top of Page