A Newsletter from Collie Rescue of Greater Illinois

The Collie Nose

20th Anniversary Edition/ Summer 2015

This year Collie Rescue

of Greater Illinois, Inc. is

celebrating 20 years of rescuing our favorite

herder, the collie. We’ll celebrate this milestone

at our Annual CRGI Picnic and share the success

of this great rescue organization with our mem-

bers.

Our collies inspire the loyalty, dedication,

perseverance, hard work and inner peace that is

needed to support an organization that is strictly

voluntary and has grown from a single person's

passion to a multi-faceted organization with over

a hundred volunteers. The fact that after 20 years

this organization is thriving, even through the

most severe economic recession in U.S. history,

is a testament to its leadership.

CRGI has affected the lives of collies not

only in the greater Illinois area, but throughout the

Midwest, including states as far away as Texas,

Louisiana, Missouri, Ohio, etc. When the distress

call is received from shelters, individuals and oth-

er rescue organizations that are suddenly over-

whelmed by hoarding situations, or sudden unan-

ticipated events, such as hurricanes, floods or

earthquakes, CRGI has been ready and willing to

assist. This is a tribute to the strength of the or-

ganization and its leadership that has been

demonstrated constantly over the past two dec-

ades. Its reputation in the Rescue Community is

its legacy.

Could Tina Kiselka, as the founder and

spearhead for starting the first collie rescue or-

ganization in Illinois, have envisioned her impact?

From humble beginnings in June, 1995 when she

rescued that first collie from certain death at a kill

shelter, a driven Tina recognized the need to pro-

tect and serve this noble breed and she worked

hard to start up the fledgling rescue organization.

She studied other rescue organizations,

(Continued on page 12)

Throughout this online newsletter, watch for clickable links to more information! The text will

be in color, and underlined. Plus, Click on our logo whenever you want to come

back to page 1!

In This

Issue:

Anniversary Year 1

Memorable

Moments

2-4

Grunts &Groans 5

Hot Dogs 6

Preventable

Parasites

Volunteer

Spotlight

Canine Influenza 13

Kids’ Corner 13

20 Years of Collie Rescue in Illinois

By Ellen Keirnan

The Collie Rescue of Greater Illinois, Inc. Board

members know the importance of those that give

their time and resources for the love of our furry

friends. Without people stepping up to serve, an

organization wouldn’t have the structure it needs

to exist. Aside from

the founding member

and board, the organi-

zation is made up of

many volunteers. No

role’s too small to go

unappreciated.

Each year Collie Res-

cue puts on a Volunteer Appreciation Party. This

year 52 volunteers showed up for a time of fel-

lowship, fun, and food.

Volunteer, George Hayes, secured a fan-

tastic room for us with ample space again this

year. One by one, those attending gave their

names, shared what they do, and a few even

“fessed up” to being foster failures (those who

adopt their foster). This was a great way to put

names to faces and learn how others contribute

to our organization.

Whether volunteers work directly with the

dogs or work behind the scenes, this event cele-

brates the value of the many significant roles our

volunteers play in making our organization work.

One volunteer reminded everyone that we are a

great family with a common goal.

Gift bags were given to those that give

their time and skills to creating The Collie Nose

newsletter. An engraved pen was presented to

each attendee as a heartfelt token. Event Coordi-

nator, Kim Nelson, awarded mint candy party fa-

vors, displaying words such as “commit-mint, in-

volve-mint, and accomplish-mint.” Kim’s creative

and clever play on words successfully described

our volunteers.

Cheers of

excitement were

heard when some-

one won a round

of Bingo or a

game, receiving a

fun-filled bag of

goodies. Kids had

a ball! And what’s

a party without food?

Pizza and beverages were provided, while

all attending brought an item to share. Some

brought appetizers, while others satisfied our

sweet-tooth with yummy desserts. Everything

was delicious! BUT nothing drew more attention

than the colorful homemade cake depicting a

sweet collie made by talented Karen Rivera. Her

well-chosen words in red frosting captured the

spirit of the luncheon and could not have ex-

pressed it any better: “Volunteers do not get

paid, NOT because they are worthless, but

because they are priceless.”

A good time was had by all and apprecia-

tion for what everyone contributes was evident!

From the volunteers, to the board members who

keep us organized, we all play a part and contrib-

ute to the success of CRGI.

As we celebrate our 20

Anniversary, we

look forward to another meaningful

year of being a “priceless” part of Col-

lie Rescue of Greater Illinois, Inc.

Inspirational cake!

Volunteers Matter By Kym McNabney

Madeline

wins!

Memorable Moments of CRGI

Fun times

Each year the “Collie

Crystal Bowl” "strikes"

up a good time raising

much-needed funds

used to "spare" lives and

re-home rescued collies.

This is a major fundrais-

ing event each year for

Collie Rescue of Greater

Illinois, Inc. and this year

over $2,000 was raised to support Collie Rescue!

Kim Nelson and Tina Kiselka fabulously orga-

nized a day that "rolled" along with ease. Alt-

hough they made it look easy, we all knew it was

lots of work. Along the "lanes" Caroline Lewis

and her helpers prepared and presented attrac-

tively displayed winning baskets on our raffle ta-

bles. Caroline’s beautifully decorated desserts

were a real treat as well. Jan Melhan and Nicole

Belizaire kept those raffle tickets comin’ and

Karen Hayes and Susie Moncek patrolled the

lanes for that winning red pin. Gail Diedrichsen.

played our “Pink Poodle-Bunny” and sold 50/50

raffle tickets. Tom won that raffle and generously

donated 50% of his winnings back to the organi-

zation. As always CRGI thanks the people who

came early to set up, and stayed late to clean up.

Also, thanks to Gail D. for her "lane" signs and

decorations - she knows how to dress a festive

occasion.

Thanks to our host, Fox Bowl. Our lunch provid-

er, Stella’s Pizza and Pub served a bountiful

and delicious feast for the participants.

Most of all, thanks to all who participated

and supported this event. When you show up,

put those shoes on, and pick up that bowling ball,

know that you have made a difference to CRGI

and the collies who need us!

We owe a heartfelt thanks to our lane sponsors:

The Aichingers —Greenway Recycling

Nelson’s Rainbow Bridge

Verlo Mattress Factory —Smith Family

Kerri Foster —Keller Williams Realty, Infinity

Grunts ‘n Groans by George —Hayes Family

Puppy Mill Project

Dee Santucci

Faithful Faces Pet Portraits

BuddiesForLife —Colleen, Spirit & Ailie

Pet Supplies Plus –George Lennon

I See Something Inc.—books for kids

Artistic Creations– Naperville

Glen Ellyn Animal Hospital

We’d also like to thank our raffle donors:

Kim Nelson

The Udelle Family

The Hansas Family

Karen Rivera

Lost Mountain

PapaNicholas Coffee

Stan Wozniak

Mary Zwirn

Joanie Schulfer

Caroline Lewis

Butch Kiselka

Kate Torcom & Aligned Modern Health

Michelle Hirsch

Einstein Bros. Bagels

I See Something Inc. (books for kids)

Two Bostons

Visit us online at CollieRescue.org,

and on Facebook at

Facebook.com/CollieRescue,

where we enjoy the company of our

fans and foster homes!

Fun for Funds: Annual Collie Crystal Bowl

Memorable Moments of CRGI

Celtic Collies celebrate St. Pat’s Day

Above —The CRGI delegation;

Left —Brody’s selfie with the man himself;

Below —Mike takes it easy, and

Bottom Left —collies Cooper and Miss Bonnie show

Megan Gessler and Ruth Meek around the festivities.

CRGI Volunteers marched with

their Scottish collies dressed in Emer-

ald Isle green during the Naperville St.

Patrick’s Day Parade, sponsored by the

West Suburban Irish.

St. Patrick’s Day celebrates Irish

immigrants who came to this country

with hopes for a better life. Many ar-

rived very poor, but worked hard to

make a new home for themselves in a foreign land. That

brave spirit and hope is found in many of our rescued

collies. They’ve had a rough beginning, but their proud

spirit shines through.

Every collie marching had a story to tell about a

tough start. But, even so, the loving homes they have

today shows in their shiny, elegant coats, sweet disposi-

tions, and beautiful collie smiles.

As we made our way through the streets, hundreds

of spectators met us with enthusiastic applause.

Thanks to the volunteers who came out to proudly

represent our organization. Also, Thanks to the Diedrich-

sens for offering their home as our launching pad. With

plenty of hot coffee, Irish soda bread, and scones, we

had a fun day.

Grunts&Groans

A Day in the Life of a Collie

By George Hayes

Hhhmmmm, groannnn, hhhmmm, grunt, rrrum-

ble, rrrumble, twitch … zzzz… What? What? Oh

ok, that buzzer thing is ringing again. Come on

everyone up out of bed. I like how all of us fit

squished together.

Hi, I’m Rox-eeee. I’m a Tri... Sweet, loyal,

& beautiful. They sometimes call me “Roxeee

Hush Hush Quiet Hush.” I can’t help it - I like to

talk. And that other collie over there is my k-9

sister. The humans call her “AAAnnnneee -

AAAnnnneee Come.” She likes to stay outside a

long time and they are always calling her name.

She doesn’t jump around as much as me. Or

talk as much as me, but she likes to take naps.

And I like to take naps. And “dad” likes to take

naps. Cool, that’s why I keep them.

What? I heard that word “vet”. I like that

word … at least most times. It has its up side. I

get to go bye-bye in the car. And when we get

there, I love all the smells. I sniff and sniff. I

show my humans which way to go to follow the

smells. They keep going the wrong way cuz they

don’t know nothin' about good smells. Inside the

building I put my front feet up on the counter so I

can say hi to all the humans inside the pen

before I go sit on the seat next to “Dad”.

Cool, we’re eye level and all those other

dogs are down on the floor. Hey, what? Ok ok I’ll

get down there too. It’s my turn now to stand on

a wiggly board so “Dad” can call me chunky.

Best of all the human in the white coat calls me

a great dog. Over and over, a great dog. Cool.

Another car ride home so I can tell everyone all

about my adventures at the “vet” and having a

yelling match with that motor cycle. Roxeeee

Hush Hush Quiet Hush. Yep, that’s me.

I like this place. I got the humans trained

just like they should be. They pet me a lot, talk

sweet to me and they are pretty good on a

leash. They take me bye-bye in the car with the

windows down only a little bit. They don’t know

it’s fun jumping out of

them. Oh and they gave

me a k-9 friend. Ok Ann-

eee, you were here first. Will you let

me tell MY story? Oh and they gave

me the cat upstairs. Well really Ann-

eeee and I only met it once. I call

him to come down to play with us but

he’s stuck up. Get it? … stuck “up”! Stupid cat.

Eat food. Chew my bone. Drink some wa-

ter. Spin around, spin around, take a nap. Chase

the stranger-critters away from our yard. OMG,

that same one is back again. He comes here

every day. He makes me so mad, he never

learns. I sure tell him a thing or two. And after

walking up our stairs he walks right back down

again and goes away. I showed him. I told him to

go and he went. “Dad” calls him “Mail's Here”.

“Dad” seems ok with it – go figure. Eat food.

Chew my bone. Drink some water. Spin around,

spin around, take a nap – sighhhhh, what a life.

Oh good, “Mom” is home. I have to tell

her all about my day. Ok Ann-eee you can tell

her too. But she calls my name more than yours.

Roxeeee Hush Hush Quiet Hush ... Roxeeeeee.

Now It’s dark out. It’s time for all of us to

nap around the big box. Sometimes there is an-

other collie but he’s in the box. They call that

one Lass-eeee. I like that one, wish he could

come here to play. I could show him my jumps

and we could talk. Hhhmmmm, hhmm, grunt,

grooooan, …. What? What? Oh ok, they are on

the move again. It’s time for the

humans to go to bed. Yep, I like

how all of us fit squished together.

I made these humans fall

in love with me. I like it when they

get all sappy and hug me, and Ann-eee too. I

have met other collies as lucky as me. We all

belong to an extraordinary pack called COLLIE

RESCUE OF GREATER ILLINOIS.

Summer should be a fun time for you and

your pooch. But just as heat and sun can be dan-

gerous to your health, the summer can leave your

dog vulnerable to a number of heat-related ill-

nesses including heat stroke, heat exhaustion,

and heat cramps that occur after exposure to

high temperatures. Thankfully, these illnesses

can be prevented if you take the right precautions

and know your dog's limits and recognize the

danger signs.

Spring temperatures are now rising and

we can be caught off guard, an example is leav-

ing a dog in a car. Often people leave their dogs

in the car while they shop or run errands, but this

can be a dog's death sentence. The President

and CEO of United Animal Nations (UAN), Nicole

Forsyth, has offered several reasons why leaving

a dog in a hot car should be avoided. Since dogs

can cool off only by panting and through their

footpads, they are especially vulnerable to heat.

Even on seemingly mild days, an enclosed

car can be deadly. According to a Stanford Uni-

versity study, when it was 72° F outside, a car

with windows closed reached an internal temper-

ature of 116° F within one hour. In another study,

by San Francisco State University, when the out-

side temperature was 80° F, an enclosed car

rose to 99° F in 10 minutes. This means that a

stop for an errand with our dog along must be

done very quickly in hot weather or should be

avoided altogether.

You probably know that a dog’s normal

body temperature is between 101 to 102.5° F.

So, a dog can withstand a high body temperature

for only a short time before suffering severe ef-

fects or even death. Studies have shown that

cracking the windows open has little effect

on a car’s internal temperature. For exam-

ple, a car can heat up 30° F in 10 minutes,

even with windows cracked.

One of our Collie Nose writers has an

important story to tell. "Years ago when I

was a graduate student I pulled into a parking

space. It was one of those really hot summer

days. I looked over at the car next to mine and

noticed a dog panting heavily and in distress. The

windows were cracked slightly. This was long be-

fore cell phones and I needed to get into a build-

ing to call the campus police. I went back to that

car and decided the dog could not wait. I was

able to reach into the car and unlock the door. I

took the dog to some shade under a tree and

asked some people walking by to get me some

water which they did. There was no sign of the

police for a long time, but they finally showed up.

The dog would have been dead if I had waited.

The police officer decided to look for the owner of

the car, but he made me wait just in case they

wanted to press charges for breaking and enter-

ing. In the meantime, I was late for my meeting

and finally a young man and his girlfriend ap-

peared and admitted they became distracted, for-

getting all about the dog. It was somewhat heart-

ening to hear the campus cop read them the riot

act for being stupid in bringing the dog to campus

on a hot day. The owners did not press charges

and I was not arrested, but I did have a talk with

them. I offered to take the dog off their hands, but

they said they loved the dog and promised it

would never happen again."

Illinois has a state law that reads as fol-

lows: (Section 7.1): Confinement in motor-

vehicle- Any animal confined in a motor vehi-

cle in such a manner that places it in a life or

health threatening situation by exposure to a

prolonged period of extreme heat or cold,

without proper ventilation or other protection

from such heat or cold

> A person convicted of violat-

ing this law (Section ) is guilty of

a Class C misdemeanor.

(Continued on page 7)

Summertime Safety:

HOT Dogs By Dale Mohr

> A second or subsequent violation is a

Class B misdemeanor.

An animal control officer, law enforcement

officer, or Department investigator has au-

thority to enter such motor vehicle by any

reasonable means under the circumstances

after making a reasonable effort to locate the

owner or other person responsible.

Exposure to excessive heat causes the dog's

body cells to stop working properly and to re-

lease dangerous chemicals. These can lead to

nerve damage, heart problems, liver damage,

brain damage and even death. When the dog’s

organ systems are shutting down, the dog may

exhibit signs of distress, including excessive

panting and drooling, increased heart rate, trou-

ble breathing, disorientation, loss of conscious-

ness, seizure, or respiratory arrest.

Humidity can increase the danger. Dr.

Barry Kellogg, VMD, of the Humane Society Vet-

erinary Medical Association states, "It's important

to remember that it's not just the ambient temper-

ature but also the humidity that can affect your

pet... Animals pant to evaporate moisture from

their lungs, which takes heat away from their

body. If the humidity (as well as the temperature)

is too high, they are unable to cool themselves,

and their temperature will skyrocket to dangerous

levels—very quickly."

Taking a dog's temperature will quickly tell

you if there is a serious problem. Dogs' tempera-

tures should not be allowed to get over 104°. If

your dog's temperature rises this high, follow the

instructions for treating heatstroke. Move your

pet into the shade or an air-conditioned area. Ap-

ply ice packs or cold towels to the head, neck,

and chest or run cool (not cold) water over it. En-

courage drinking small amounts of cool water or

licking ice cubes. The next step should be a vet-

erinarian.

Tips:

 If your pet has to be in a hot environment,

provide a cooling body wrap, vest, or mat

(such as the Keep Cool Mat). Soak these

products in cool water, and they'll stay

cool for up to three days. If your dog

doesn't find baths stressful, it should enjoy

a cooling soak.



Limit exercise on hot days. Adjust intensity

and duration of exercise in accordance

with the temperature. On very hot days,

limit exercise to early morning or evening

hours. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn

your pet's paws, so walk your dog on the

grass if possible. Always carry water with

you to keep your dog from dehydrating.

Dogs are at particular risk for heat stroke if

they are very old, very young, overweight,

not conditioned to prolonged exercise, or

have heart or respiratory disease. Dogs

with short muzzles—will have a much

harder time breathing in extreme heat.



Don't rely on a fan. Pets respond different-

ly to heat than humans do. Fans don't cool

off pets as effectively as they do people.



Prepare for power outages. Before a sum-

mer storm takes out the power in your

home, create a disaster plan to keep you

and your pets safe from heat stroke and

other temperature-related trouble.



Prevent sunburn. Animals can get sun-

burned, especially short-haired dogs, or

pets with pink skin and white hair. Limit

your pet’s exposure when the sun is unu-

sually strong, and ask your veterinarian

about an appropriate brand of non-

irritating sun block to apply to the dog's

ears and nose 30 minutes before going

Summertime Safety, (Continued from page 6)

(Continued on page 8)

outside. Be especially careful with pets

with white-colored ears, who are more

susceptible to skin cancer, and short-

nosed pets, who typically have difficulty

breathing.



Provide ample shade and water. Any time

your dog is outside, make sure it has

shade and plenty of fresh, cold water. Dur-

ing heat waves, add ice to water when

possible. Tree shade and tarps are ideal

because they don't obstruct air flow. Try

spraying down favorite shaded areas dur-

ing the day to create an outdoor

“evaporative cooling system.” For outdoor

dogs, try filling a kiddy pool with water and

leaving it in the shade. Be sure to change

the water often enough to prevent raising

a new batch of mosquitoes. Remember a

doghouse may not provide relief from

heat—it can make things worse.



Hot weather treat. Whip up a batch of

quick and easy peanut butter popsicles for

dogs. Always provide water, whether your

pets are inside or out with you.

If you see a pet in a hot car, take down the car's

make, model, color and license number. If there

are businesses or neighbors nearby, notify them

or security guards and ask them to try finding the

car's owner. If the owner can't be found, call the

non-emergency number of the local police or ani-

mal control and wait at the car for them to arrive.

Cats exhibit many of the same symptoms

as dogs when stressed by the heat. Early signs

of heat stroke can be excessive panting, anxiety

and pacing, increased heartbeat, respiratory dis-

tress or hyperventilation, lethargy, and an in-

creased body temperature. And, oddly enough,

cats affected by heat may actually drink less

when they should be drinking more. You can en-

courage kitty to drink by dabbing a little water at

the corner of his or her mouth.

For more information on this subject,

MyDogIsCool.com is a repository of free re-

sources to help people spread the word about

the dangers of leaving dogs in hot cars. There

are other ways to help - get informed and learn

your town's laws about leaving pets in hot cars. If

your town doesn't have an ordinance prohibiting

pets in parked cars, contact your local represent-

atives to start lobbying for one.

With just a few extra precautions, you and

your four-legged family members can have

a happy and safe time this summer.

Summertime Safety, (Continued from page 7)

Natural Flea, Tick,

and

Mosquito

Prevention

—by Amy Zurita

Summer is here, which means the weather is

perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities. Cook-

outs and camping can be fun for the whole fami-

ly, dogs included, but don't let summertime pests

ruin the festivities! Try these natural repellants to

help ward off fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes while

avoiding harsh chemicals.

Fleas and ticks:

Fleas and ticks can cause serious health con-

cerns if left untreated. Take Scout for example.

He came to Collie Rescue of Greater Illinois, Inc.

covered with both. His skin was very inflamed

and he had developed a significant skin infection.

Today he is adopted and living happily with the

Zwirn family. They make sure he's protected so

that he will never suffer again.

In regards to natural preventatives vs

chemical preventatives, Dr. Erin O'Connor of Vi-

tality Chiropractic Center, reminds us that “there

is no such thing as a 100% guaranteed method,”

but she likes to avoid ex-

posure to unnecessary

chemicals. Dr. O'Connor

suggests the use of essen-

tial oils to prevent fleas

and ticks. She urges the

importance of using thera-

peutic grade essential oils,

such as Young Living es-

sential oils, which differ

(Continued on page 9)

Scout

from the aromatic grade oils available at most

health food stores.

Lavender or purification oil is recommend-

ed to help repel fleas and ticks. These oils may

be used in various manners for flea and tick pre-

vention. A mist can be made by filling a small

metal spray bottle with distilled water and adding

15 drops of the essential oil. This mist can then

be spritzed over the dog's coat. If a spray bottle

is unavailable, a few drops of the essential oil

can be placed onto the hands and rubbed onto

the dog's coat behind the head and neck. Alter-

nately, a few drops of the oil can be placed onto

the dog's collar for the same preventative effects.

If the idea of using essential oils is intimi-

dating, you can try this natural, homemade pow-

der recipe published by Dogs Naturally Maga-

zine: It is effective at preventing not only fleas

and ticks, but also mosquitoes. Simply mix to-

gether equal parts of food-grade diatoma-

ceous earth, neem powder, and yarrow pow-

der. This mixture can be stored in a shaker jar

and ruffled into the dog's neck and shoulders

monthly, though take care to

reapply the powder if your dog

gets wet. According to Dogs

Naturally Magazine, a teaspoon

of this powder is sufficient for

medium sized dogs.

Sometimes, regardless of preventative

measures, fleas or ticks may find their ways onto

our furry friends. In case of ticks on your dog or

any other animal, Dr. O'Connor recommends ap-

plying one drop of Young Living purification oil to

the tick. This will cause the tick to remove its

head from the animal's skin, leaving it easy to re-

move from the animal.

To address fleas on your pet, Dr. O'Con-

nor suggests washing your dog with organic ap-

ple cider vinegar and rinsing the coat out thor-

oughly. Then mist a 50/50 dilution of the apple

cider vinegar and water onto the coat. After bath-

ing and misting the dog, apply a few drops of

Young Living purification oil to the palms and rub

it into the neck and shoulders of the dog's coat.

Mosquitoes:

Mosquito bites can ruin an evening of fun

in no time, but mosquito bites have the potential

to cause even bigger problems in pets, as mos-

quitoes carry the heartworm parasite. It is im-

portant to keep up with heartworm preventative

year-round, but the following natural mosquito

repellants can help prevent itchy mosquito bites

on you and your dog.

Dogs Naturally Magazine recommends

Repel lemon eucalyptus as a mosquito repellant

for dogs. Though it is manufactured for human

use, the ingredients in Repel are safe and effec-

tive for use on dogs as well. Dogs Naturally mag-

azine does advise using caution when applying

Repel to your dog, as the spray does have a

strong smell, which may irritate your dog's nose.

A company called animalEO creates es-

sential oil blends designated for use with ani-

mals. They have created a blend called Away,

which can be used to repel mosquitoes and

gnats, as well as to help freshen up a stinky pet!

The animalEO website suggests diluting the oil in

a water-based mist, applying the drops to the fur

after rubbing it on your hands, or mixing some oil

into coconut oil or ointment.

Neem is also effective in mosquito preven-

tion. It can be purchased in oil form, which can

be blended into coconut oil and smoothed onto

your dog's fur, as well as onto your own skin, to

repel mosquitos. Neem oil can also be mixed

with water in a garden-sprayer and sprayed

around doorways to repel mosquitoes that may

try to enter the house.

Mosquitoes are bad enough outside, but

nothing is more annoying than mosquitoes in the

house! Our own Gail Diedrichsen has shared this

simple, effective mosquito trap. Place a bowl of

water underneath a desk lamp, and add a few

drops of dish soap to the water. The moisture

from the water attracts mosquitoes, as does the

light's reflection on the water. The addition of the

dish soap to the water causes the surface to be-

come sticky, which traps the pesky insects.

Simply leave the lamp on overnight when every-

one has gone to bed, and the trap should

take care of any intrusive mosquitoes!

Prevention, (Continued from page 8)

As the old adage

goes, “Do what you

love and you’ll never

work a day in your life.”

Collie rescue of

Greater Illinois, inc. is

blessed with the good fortune to have a volunteer named Sherylee

Dodge in our rescue family. That, we owe to a dog named Angel, one

smart mother, and a God-given talent.

Blessed with a love for pets, especially collies, Sherylee Dodge

joined the CRGI team several years ago. She’s a fosterer, a trans-

porter, designs our Constant Contacts email, and has joined our

newsletter team as layout artist. Her creative genius is something our

collies benefit from everyday, while Sherylee not only sees her efforts

as fun, but satisfying.

In addition, Sherylee’s business, Faithful Faces Pet Portraits, has

grown leaps and bounds in a few short years. Sharing how her business was first launched,

Sherylee recalls, “I opened the door to opportunity and I fell into it.” Interestingly, her childhood col-

lie, Angel, and her volunteer experience for our organization were the sparks that ignited her re-

warding venture as a pet portrait artist.

Sherylee grew up in semi- rural Indiana, the oldest of three sisters. There had been some

crime reported in her neighborhood and her dad said, “We’re getting a gun or a dog.” Sherylee’s

mom, a smart lady, had grown up watching Lassie, so a collie it was. Sable and white rough, Angel,

gladly accepted her position as sentry. Sherylee closely bonded with Angel, paving the way for her

love of the breed.

Sherylee has fostered about fifteen dogs in three years. We jokingly call her one of our “foster

failures” because she’s adopted three fosters. Sherylee recalls, “I wanted a female, sable, rough

collie. I ended up with a smooth, tricolor, male!” Coal, her first foster, needed a home and Sherylee

could not say no to this sweet dog. Cleo, a rough tricolor joined her clan next. Third time’s a charm

—the Dodges adopted Carissa and Sherylee finally fulfilled her original female, sable, rough wish!

Now they all hang with her as she draws.

This artist started her portrait career drawing dogs’ eyes. “I

started drawing some of my fostered dogs’ eyes. Lily was my

first. She was a Pyrenees/collie mix with huge, soulful, amber

eyes. I tried to take a close-up photo, but it didn’t capture her ex-

pression like I wanted. So I tried drawing her, instead.” Sherylee

continued drawing other foster dogs’ eyes in great detail, en-

thralled by the expressions she observed in the gentle eyes of

the many homeless dogs she was caring for. Little did she know,

these images would spark her thriving art business.

“In high school and college I drew animals, especially

horses. I never finished college. I had all this art piling up, and

for what? I got married and had kids, and friends and family

would ask when I was going to draw again. I guess I needed a

reason to do it. But then a few years ago I was looking for some-

thing I could make to sell at a fundraiser craft show coming up

(Continued on page 11)

Volunteer Profile:

Meet Sherylee Dodge,

Artist and Volunteer

By Gail Diedrichsen

Coal’s portrait

The artist and her original

CRGI dog, Coal (formerly

Wags)

the followin spring, and my

husband said, ‘Draw some-

thing!’ I laughed. I told him I

couldn’t do that anymore.

But secretly I gave it a try. It

was hard work, and not

coming out like I wanted,

so I put it away. But even-

tually, I took it out and tried

again. I felt like the pencils

weren’t doing it for me, and

I thought 'This needs a ball-

point pen…' And that was

all it took. It got easier with

each face I drew. I had a

few of them under my belt

when I got invited to a

cookie exchange/

handmade gift event that

one of our volunteers was

hosting before Christmas.

So I knew that would be my

test.”

That day was pivotal,

influencing the direction

she’d take as an artist. She

describes, “I arrived at the

event and sheepishly set up

my drawings, (which were

just close-ups back then).

Once I had my display situ-

ated on a chair in the cor-

ner, I marked them for $10, and walked away. I

was shocked to sell five or six that day and drove

home with over fifty dollars in my pocket. I said to

myself, ‘This is crazy-- People give me money for

something I do for FUN?’ Even crazier… people

immediately wanted to know if I could draw their

own dogs.”

She’s come a long way since that cookie

exchange. She’s portrayed dogs from stunning

champions to beloved family mutts, creating

treasured memories. She has also drawn cats,

and even an exotic bearded dragon. She’s wait-

ing anxiously on a request for a horse, which she

feels she could draw with her eyes closed.

Sherylee is often asked to draw

memorial portraits and she finds these

requests especially rewarding. “People

are so moved. In turn, I am so humbled

when I see how the drawing I’ve created

for them is so meaningful. Their reaction

was so unexpected when I first started

out, but I’m so glad I can help people in

such a meaningful way.”

She’s drawing dogs (and other pets)

from all over the country these days

while continuing to volunteer. The de-

mand for her work is not surprising be-

cause it’s stunning. Her style is realistic

and incredibly dramatic. She works with

a ballpoint pen creating stark black and

white images.

Ironically for this artist who initial-

ly focused on dogs’ eyes, her first

adoptee Coal only has one eye, losing

the other to genetic complications. An-

other ironic portrait she has done is the

drawing of Halo, a foolishly bred, double

-dilute who was born blind and deaf.

Collie Rescue of the Carolinas commis-

sioned a portrait of Halo as an icon for

their fundraising. Though Halo hardly

has an opening for eyes, Sherylee per-

ceptively conveyed this dog’s sweet,

gentle personality in her rendition of this

delicate beauty. Halo glows against a

contrasting, dark background like a

heavenly creature, not of this world.

Sherylee generously shares her

many gifts with CRGI and her contributions are

greatly appreciated. She shares, “Knowing I’ve

been given a gift that for years I sadly did not use

is unfortunate…but now? I know why I’ve been

given this blessing.” Sherylee’s entire portfolio

and order information are available on her web-

site:

FaithfulFacesPetPortraits.com

(Continued from page 10)

Halo

The original Lilly photo and

drawing, from 2011

and with the help of Kim Meziere of A.D.O.P.T.,

Tina learned about rescue, what needed to be

done, legal aspects, etc. She found and orga-

nized volunteers to assist in transport, fostering

and communication of the collie rescue mission,

and tapped into resources within the Central

States Collie Club, where she was showing her

dog in conformation. For over 10 years she and

Cheryl Hoglund bonded in this effort to col-

lect donations and build an official Collie Rescue

organization.

In November, 1996 Collie Rescue of

Greater Illinois, Inc. was registered as a not-for-

profit 501c3 organization in Illinois so that it could

conduct the tax exempt fundraising that would

allow it to grow. The passion that drove Tina was

inspired by the love of the breed and the indomi-

table spirit she found in that first rescued collie.

Tina recalls: "I continued to show in con-

formation for a couple of years and was capable

of finishing one champion and short 5 points on

my second collie's championship. I had a lot on

my plate at that time, raising two children, work-

ing full time in downtown Chicago, taking care of

my parents (who lived with me). Something had

to eventually give. I chose to stay in rescue be-

cause it gave me the most reward—saving the

dogs, meeting their needs, whatever it was— to

give them their second chance. Seeing an adop-

tive family with their smiles on their faces and the

arms of a child around the neck of their new collie

companion was no match for winning a blue

ribbon in the ring. I knew I belonged in rescue

because I loved people and could not close my

eyes to the smile on that collie’s face who now

found their forever home and family."

Tina served as president until 1998

when the position was handed over to Robert

Olsen, a valued volunteer and Board mem-

ber. Bob spent the next 14 years promoting

CRGI not only through word of mouth but also

in cyber space, as the world of the internet and

instant communication opened doors for the

young organization.

Next, Bob turned over the leadership

reins to John Cymerman, a long time vol-

unteer who was ready to accept them

and became president in 2012. During

John's term, the Collie Nose newsletter was re-

born and participation increased in the number

and size of fundraising events that would contin-

ue to spread the word about CRGI's and the re-

lated need for additional support. Our family con-

tinued to grow.

In 2013 Vicki Wilder became President.

Another long time volunteer, having served 15

years with CRGI, she and her husband lovingly

gave their time and space to the organization.

They built and obtained a kennel license to house

rescued collies.

Then, in 2014, Foster Home Coordinator

Susie Moncek, became the current President

of CRGI. She has been involved as a volunteer

for many years, and has more than proven that

she has what it takes to move CRGI forward.

She continues in the footsteps of past presidents

in her dedication to rescue and hopes to make

educating our volunteers and adopters about col-

lies a big part of CRGI future.

The history of each of over 1000 dogs who

have entered the CRGI family, often describes a

dog who has been deprived of love…Yet they

thrive when loved and given the care they de-

serve. Those stories feed the passion that fuels

our volunteers, who keep CRGI a healthy organi-

zation. Thank you for caring for 20 years and

counting! We’ve made a difference. Thank you

for your continued support.

Anniversary, (Continued from page 1)

CollieWare? Collie

WEAR? CollieWhere?

Find fun

CRGI-

themed gifts

at the

CRGI Store.

It has become impossible to watch the news without hearing that the Canine Influenza out-

break across Illinois, Alabama, California, Texas, Massachusetts, New York, Wisconsin, Michigan,

New Jersey, Iowa, Ohio and Indiana is a major concern for all pet owners. It has been advised to

avoid areas frequented by dogs that could have come in contact with an infected animal. Places

such as dog parks and pet stores where animals could have nose to nose contact should be visited

with caution. In an effort to keep our foster dogs safe, Collie Rescue of Greater Illinois, Inc has put

our attendance at our regular events and pet expos on hold. These events and Fundraisers

are vital to bringing awareness to our

organization and raising the neces-

sary funds to keep rescuing and re-

homing the Collies that come into our

care. We continue to bring Collies in

need into rescue and we need your

help. Donations can be made on

our website via Paypal http://

www.collierescue.org/ or by mail-

ing a check to PO Box 4169 Lisle,

Illinois 60532.

Thank you in advance for helping

us help the Collies!

Have a talented kid in your

family? We would love to dis-

play our young members’ art,

poetry, letters or stories.

We invite you to share

with our fans:

Info@collierescue.org

Email us your feedback on our latest

Newsletter editions:

info@collierescue.org

Collie Rescue of Greater

Illinois, Inc is:

Board Members:

President and Foster Home

Coordinator Susie Moncek,

Treasurer Tina Kiselka,

Secretary Caroline Lewis, &

Intake Coordinator Melanie Clawson

Adoption Coordinator: Jeana Butler

Events Coordinator: Kim Kiselka

Newsletter Volunteers:

Gail Diedrichsen, Sherylee Dodge,

George Hayes, Ellen Keirnan,

Kym McNabney, Dale Mohr,

Madeline Sibon, & Amy Zurita

Kids’ Corner

This wonderful artwork was created by Karen and

George’s grandson Cayden. He is 6 years old. He explains

that he has two suns not because Roxie barks from sunup

until sundown, but because the yellow sun was not

bright enough. He added the orange one too “cause the

sun is hot” Thanks Cayden for sharing.

Canine Influenza and CRGI