Emerald City Pet Rescue Blog

Annie & Rocky

CC & LuLu

Hank & Ginger

Sometimes, two pups can be better than one! Or at least, that can often be the case with bonded dogs in the rescue system.

Being housed at a shelter or rescue can be a very uncertain experience for a pet. There are many reasons why a pet may end up in a shelter/rescue, but often, they have lost a family and a home, and they don't understand what happened or why. 

Sometimes a bonded pair of dogs will come to us having relied on each other in a previous home, while other times, they may have bonded in a foster home or even at the shelter itself. When we notice that a pair of dogs lean heavily on each other for love and support, we want to ensure they continue to have that support throughout their lives. That's why we adopt them out together!

Why should you consider adopting a bonded pair?

Adopting a bonded pair can ease the adjustment of the animals into their new environment because they have familiarity with each other.

They have a built-in playmate they're already familiar with, which can reduce destructive behavior in the home.

Since they have each other, they are less likely to suffer from separation anxiety as they adjust!

ECPR currently has three pairs of bonded dogs that are waiting to find forever homes. By considering adopting a pair, you are ensuring that they will not be separated and they can stay together for the rest of their lives. That's a wonderful gift! In return, they will grow together with you as they adjust, and they will have each other for additional reassurance as they learn your routine. It's a win-win for all!

Annie and Rocky are a friendly and easygoing pair, one being a mini poodle and the other a terrier mix. They are low-key and love to snuggle; a short walk or two a day is all they need to stay content. 

CC and LuLu are a pair of Chihuahuas that bonded in their foster home, and we just knew by the love they have for each other that they would be devastated to be separated. They love to cuddle together and go on tandem walks!

Hank and Ginger are so precious! Hank is very protective of Ginger and constantly checks on her to make sure that she is okay; such a dedicated boyfriend!! They can be a bit timid around a lot of noise, so they are hoping for a mellow home that can help them build their confidence. 

Please give us a call at 206 557 4661 to learn more about these precious, dedicated pups waiting to find security and love in a forever home together.

Johnny Rocket has much to say about Pet Dental Health Month - "PFFFT"! But did you know that caring for your pet's teeth is not only important for their oral health but for their overall health as well?

80% of pets have some form of dental disease by only two years of age! Some pets, particularly small breeds, may have dental problems at an even younger age.

Without regular dental cleanings and at-home care, your pet can suffer from painful periodontal problems that make it difficult for them to eat. Additionally, oral bacteria can travel through your pet’s bloodstream, attacking their hearts, kidneys, and other organs. Since Dental disease has such a huge impact on your furry friend’s overall health, comprehensive dental care is an essential part of your pet’s preventive care program.

Signs that your pet needs dental care:

1. Bad breath

2. Broken or loose teeth

3. Extra teeth or retained baby teeth

4. Discolored teeth or teeth covered in tartar
5. Abnormal drooling, chewing, or dropping food from their mouth

6. Reduced appetite
7. Bleeding from their mouth/gums



How do Dentals work?

After a thorough examination of your dog's mouth, tooth scaling will be performed, using both hand and ultrasonic scalers to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. The tartar below the gum line causes the most significant periodontal disease, so it is important that it be thoroughly removed.


How Can You Help Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy?

Do you brush your pet’s teeth? Just like humans, it helps!  Keep the sessions short and positive. Dip your finger in beef bouillon and massage his lips in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a day for a few weeks, and then move on to the teeth and gums.

Give your pet dental chews!

Spritz Dog Dental Spray on their teeth/gums as instructions allow.



Some pets are just genetically exposed to having “bad teeth”; one of my dogs was almost toothless by the time she was four! So be aware that depending on the breed and genetics of your pet, they may need frequent cleanings by your vet and extractions no matter what you do. But preventative care is the BEST oral care you can provide for your pet!

The Pawlidays are such a fun time to celebrate and reflect upon the year, but don't forget, pets can be as curious as children about holiday decorations, food, and visitors! Cats can swallow tinsel, dogs can accidentally eat chocolate, and both can get into the medicine from Aunt Sally's purse.

Here are a few things to consider when planning your holiday celebrations!

• Batteries in toys, greeting cards, electronic devices, flameless candles, and remote controls can cause serious injury if pets (or humans) swallow them. Internal burns can occur in a very short time.
• Water from Christmas tree stands can contain bacteria. Swallowing the water can cause stomach upset and diarrhea, even if the ingredients aren't poisonous.
• Pets can choke on tinsel, ribbons, and Christmas tree needles. They can be cut by broken ornaments. Keep trees and their decorations high up or blocked off.
• Poinsettia is not a deadly plant, despite frequent warnings in the media. However, the sap from poinsettia plants can be very irritating. Pets who chew on poinsettia can develop skin rashes and mouth irritation. If they swallow the plant, they could have stomach upset and discomfort.
• Holly leaves are prickly and can cause injury if a pet tries to eat them. Holly berries can be poisonous; they easily dry up and fall onto the floor where pets (and children) can find them.
• Alcoholic beverages and chocolate are among the foods that pets should not consume. Empty the glasses and store leftovers safely so pets won’t consume the drinks or develop food poisoning. (Last year, my sister's Yorkie got into a wine glass, drank it all, and ended up in the pet ER, it was quite a scare! Watch those wine glasses!)
• Many human medicines are poisonous to pets. For example, small amounts of over-the-counter pain relievers can be fatal to cats and dogs. Even if your own medications are stored safely, visitors may have medications in their purses or suitcases. Provide a place to store these things safely, out of sight, and out of reach of pets (and children).

If your pet swallows a battery, take the animal to the vet immediately! It is NOT OK to wait. Call your vet immediately if your pet seems ill after getting into any kind of food or decoration. If you have questions about something your pet may have swallowed, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Local specialists will answer your call 24 hours a day.

The Pawlidays are almost here, and our animals need your help! Our wonderful animal care staff is working toward fulfilling Santa wishes for our rescue pets, and we would love to share with you a list of their greatest desires!! If you’d like to help fill their stockings, any of the gifts below can be purchased and sent to 20 South Idaho St, Seattle Wa 98134 c/o Holiday Donations 

Please give your furry friends a hug from us! 

Gifts for our Critters