Reaching Heaven Through Elle.

"Down with the kids, and the kids down with her"

In the imagination of negative fantasy, the Pit Bull Terrier is a hell-bound creature of pure destruction. A negative villain who trundles through life with a driven desire to harm, every last member of the breed is loaded in hateful characteristics of violence and aggression, making them a creature which should be kept far away from anything living and vulnerable; much like a ring-less grenade, ready to explode at any second.

In the real world, however, these notions couldn’t be further from the truth; we just happen to live in a world where sections of our media thrive on the culture of fear – serving their ambitions, yet separating everyone else in the process. Turning our heads away from propaganda, there is perhaps no better example in proving the true passive nature of a Pit Bull, than in the form of one of its most beloved members, Elle; therapy dog, colouring book inspiration, global ambassador, American Humane Hero Dog Award winner 2013, and – amongst attributes far too long to list, and possibly one of her most important, contented, happy member of a loving family. She is a canine altruist who - in her own words, continues to 'paw it forward' on a daily basis; opening the eyes of many, to the wonderful nature of Pit Bulls worldwide.

Born in the winter of 2007, Elle was taken in by an animal friendly family in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. Like all wide-eyed and eager puppies, Elle was at times boisterous, yet remained consistently calm around children and the elderly; already displaying a sensitivity to those less able to protect themselves. One morning - now a proud, beautiful lady dog, and stemming from a chance conversation with an elderly neighbour during walkies – in which Elle remained placid and attentive, it became apparent to her family Elle had the potential to develop into a professional therapy dog; a trait usually associated with Golden Retrievers and Labradors – not the perceived ‘vicious terrors’ known as the Pit Bull. 

"Golden Girl, with a Golden Girl"

After three successful months of obedience classes, Elle eventually passed all her badges with flying colours, and was now a fully-fledged qualified therapy dog. Eager to serve her public to the best of her abilities, she instantly began visiting retirement homes and boys and girls clubs; giving children the comfort of experiencing the true loving nature of Pit Bulls, and the elderly time with an animal which sees nothing but the beat of a heart, and not the lines on a face. 

Eventually, Elle’s mother took her to the local library; creating therapy dog reading programme “Tail Wagging Tales”, a storytelling group in which children read to Elle as she sits with the youngsters; as eager as they are ,yet just as obedient. As well as this, Elle also took the time to visit her local police station; in order to remind officers - who had grown accustomed to seeing abused members of her breed, how it is not the animal who is vicious, but the irresponsible owner - as well as provide much needed compassionate comfort to the hard working boys and girls in blue. As time and reputation moved forward, Elle had earned such love and respect, she found herself voted the official mascot of Halifax County in North Carolina, by the town's board of boys and girls; a well-deserved position, by a selfless girl with a huge heart.

Over the last few years - as word of Elle’s magic has spread, her stock has grown drastically; winning a number of awards, accolades, and even gaining over 150,000 new friends on her official Facebook page; both local, worldwide, and celebrity (pictured). Elle is a truly wonderful soul, and proof that all any living being needs to show their true awesome potential; as we all possess, is to be given enough love, and the chance to prove themselves as positive beacons of light. To this day, she continues to give, then give a little more; like all dogs, she is a tireless worker and lover - all in one heart-filled package.

In the imagination of negative fantasy, the Pit Bull Terrier is a hell-bound creature of pure destruction. In reality, the Pit Bull Terrier is – as all those who have ever had contact with any member of the breed who has avoided abuse will understand, a docile, friendly creature - with a soft heart and loving nature. An animal whose main aims involve loyalty, honesty, patience, and generally being a good Samaritan - as they go about their daily doggy duties. Follow Elle on Facebook, and send her and her family a glowing message of thanks and support; she loves people, as much as people love her...
  
Click Here for Elle the Pit Bull Official Website.
Click Here for Elle the Pit Bull Official Facebook Page.

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Foster Mama.

"Max - cosy and warm"

Blame Max. The story you are about to read, is all his fault… 

In 2008, California resident and animal lover Sabrina Wilkerson - searching for a dog friend to accompany her cat, Bella, paid a visit to an adoption event run through the The Chihuahua rescue of San Diego; a non-profit, no-kill organisation set up to save, shelter and eventually re-home these loveable yet abandoned creatures.  

Knowing they were made for one another, rescue Chihuahua Max (pictured); who had suffered the indignant horror of abandonment by his former family - once they had produced a baby, pulled her energies towards his excitable direction. As is easy to do with animals, Sabrina instantly fell in love, and left that day with a new addition to the Wilkerson family; it turned out to be a match made in moggy, doggy, and human heaven. 

However, while thankful for life in a loving home, this wasn't enough for Max; whose caring nature understood many other Chihuahua buddies remained in the wilderness; suffering as he once had. Showing the Wilkersons the enormous capacity for love, these small bundles of furry energy are capable of giving, Max inspired Sabrina to not just adopt other Chihuahuas lost in the lonely struggle of rescue shelters, but to actively seek fresh new forever homes for them too. Realising the sheer joy derived from these kindest of acts, Sabrina knew she had to spread this feeling. And from this idea, Foster Mamas was born...

The aim of Foster Mamas is to adopt and care for Chihuahuas on a personal level, while promoting the plight of rescue animals across the globe till they find forever homes; from Chihuahua to Chinchilla, and all in-between. Sharing experience in order to raise deeper awareness to the realities of this world, Sabrina; who runs Foster Mamas as a one woman mission of empathy, helps prove the perception of these creatures as uncontrollable, to be a ludicrous myth; needing merely a little love, in order to bring out their true beautiful souls. It takes much effort and dedication, but she achieves these goals with a sophisticated, empathetic dignity. If you wish to see for yourself, I highly recommend visiting and liking Foster Mamas official Facebook page; an ever-growing foster community currently over 28,000 members strong. A page which in December 2013, celebrated it's first full year anniversary.

"Cleo and Max - best of buddies"

As Chihuahuas enter the household - part cautious, part curious, they eventually leave happy, loved, and ready to start a new life with a fresh, loving family; fully committed to the responsibility of this little life. It is hard to let them go - as Chihuahuas rest easy on the hearts of the kind, but the Wilkerson family do not foster to serve egos, they foster to save lives. However I must note how Max - wanting a female partner in crime, decided foster Chihuahua number 17; commonly known as Cleo; a loveable former stray with the most rotten of beginnings, allowed his forever home to become hers too. Bella the cat now has to contend with a Chihuahua tag-team - but after all the rescues she has seen, she doesn't mind too much.

Foster Mamas is a glowing hub for those eager to see rescue animals re-homed and happy; the caring, heart-filled middle Earth between the pain of shelters, and the pleasure of loving families. Support Sabrina's cause with a T-shirt and fridge magnet, like the official Facebook page, share this article, and spread the word about this humble of animal life saver; she is an inspiration to us all.

And blame Max. The story you just read, was all his fault; but I think he knew this all along...

Click here for Foster Mamas Official Facebook Page
Click here for Foster Mamas Official Store

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The Rolling Dog Project.

"Jerry West"

Writing about the ongoing plight of animals rescued from puppy mill hell, neglectful home environments, or the harsh realities of life as a stray, I find myself coming across a host of web-pages relative to these stories. With few exception, the majority exist to aid their cause; raising awareness, re-homing, and in general, conditioning those unaware how a dog who cannot walk properly, hear so well - or any of the mixture of ailments they suffer from, remains as capable of living and loving with every beat of their heart, as much as any of the more 'socially acceptable' members of their breed. 
 

As my knowledge toward this community grows - and expecting to reach a limit in the sheer awe-inspiring nature of giving, I find there are in fact, no boundaries to how decent people can be. Yesterday, I came across a cause as noble as the man who makes these miracles, is understated about creating them. Of all animal stories discovered on the web, this is perhaps one of its most remarkable; for all the right reasons…

Jerry West comes from Fort Worth, in the State of Texas; a proud and independent minded slice of America. Two years after one of his dogs suffered debilitating paralyses through cancer, Jerry - using PVC tubing, straps, wheels, and his own skills of construction, built a mobility cart in order for them to continue walking. Realising the remarkable nature of its success, and like all selfless human beings, Jerry put his skills to wider use; building more carts, and helping other animals with disabled dogs in the family, unable to build or afford to buy them - also saving many from euthanasia. Over the past three years, Jerry has developed carts for all kinds of dogs up to 110 pounds in weight, across North America; giving mobility to an animal which defines walking, as one of their favourite pastimes.

While building carts for disabled dogs is impressive by itself, the truly remarkable part is how Jerry receives zero financial revenue in doing so; making his work a 100% act of a man offering two of the most valuable gifts in humanity; his time, and kindness, purely to help one of our planets most defenceless creatures. Every last cart built is given away for free, and the only accepted donations are for gift vouchers from stores in which he purchases parts. In a world where few outlets help either the poor or the disabled, Jerry aids both. And like all genuine acts of altruism, is defined by his actions; not an ego boosting slap on the back.

"Peanut - happy and mobile"

The Rolling Dog Project is one of those stories unlikely to hit the evening news; shy of a light-hearted relief skit, in-between an hour of advertising and negative manipulation stories, designed to keep us fearing one another. However, the simple account of one solitary individual giving time and effort, to aid these wonderful animals, is the kind of story deserving in exposure; honest, humble, and pure of intent - a message to remind humanity, that humanity is still alive and well in our fellow man.

Jerry West is an absolute saint, and I write this article to promote him and his work; in the hope more genuine PVC cart requests are sent his way. Support the Rolling Dog Rescue. Share this awe-inspiring story to others. Send donations for Jerry to build more carts. Spread the word as much as you can. This is a story about nothing but giving; and giving makes the world a much richer place. It may also help get more canines back on their feet again...

Click here for Rolling Dog Project Facebook Page

Click here for Rolling Dog Project Official Website 

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The Soul (Foundation) of Jon Bon Jovi.

I was interested in writing an article about Jon Bon Jovi, the man; as opposed to Jon Bon Jovi, the performer. In a world loaded with endless avenues promoting self-gratification and ruthless ambition, I have always been fascinated by those who reach the pinnace of their professions, yet still omit energies of humility; Tom Cruise, Will Smith, and yes, Jon Bon Jovi are prime examples of this; survivors as much as soldiers, in the war of fame.

Scanning the Internet, and expecting to discuss how a positive attitude, healthy relationship with his fans, and decades of producing awesome music provide Jon Bon Jovi the performer, strength to allow Jon Bon Jovi the man, to live a life of honourable peace, I stumbled across a side of his character widely uncredited in mainstream circles; his philanthropy. Besides the two dozen or so charities he supports and finances, this is no better signified than through the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. The more I read, the more it slowly began to dawn on me why - when he is not belting out Living on a Prayer in front of a hundred thousand Jovi-ites, the man is loved just as much as the performer; and in many ways, perhaps even more so...

Founded in 2006, The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation is a non-profit organisation created to aid homelessness in the United States. Provisionally starting around the Philadelphia region, but as of this date, expanding as far as the states of Georgia and California, the group works alongside other non-profit organisations and community leaders, in order to establish welfare programmes which provide basic needs of food, shelter, and education to homeless and low-income families. Affordable housing, child and health care, job-training, and financial assistance, are just a few of the ideas they implement amongst their many projects, and to date have rehoused over 260 low-income individuals. Besides all this, they are also responsible for the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Kitchen - a successful weekly community restaurant based in Red Bank, New Jersey; where food payments are made via donation, or general help within the building.

Instead of offering handouts without reason, the foundation provides those they help with a more fruitful, priceless form of currency. Feeling part of a growing community creates a dignified sense of belonging, pride, and ultimately has the potential to plant internal seeds leading to a confident, independent future; and helping each partner rediscover a sense of empowerment - a basic right of every human being, and for some a completely new one. While there are others who keep this group running, as it's figurehead - and with little fanfare, Jon Bon Jovi is actively involved in each cause - even working in the soup kitchen. I can only assume being a blue-collar guy from New Jersey, it isn't difficult for him to empathise with the harsh suffering of American poverty; the kind its mass media - like most nations, like to pretend doesn't exist.

"JBJ Soul Kitchen"

While the group are considered small in comparison to world aid charities, there is something unique in their hands on, personal approach. Growing up in an urban part of London; as high in unemployment as it was low in hope, I never appreciated millionaires such as Bob Geldof and Bono ordering me to hand over money I never had; as if the solutions to starvation were black and white, in a world run by a species as complicated as the human race. While I respected their passion to help parts of the world suffering in ways unimaginable, I also found their attitudes ignorant towards the realities faced by working-class families in the western world; never understanding most were living hand over fist themselves, and fighting just to stay in food and shelter - especially in the ruthless serve-the-self era of the 1980's. 

The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation is grounded in reality, and besides Jon Bon Jovi refraining from pushing these plights anywhere beyond the actual campaigns; (openly admitting their gigs are about the music and the music only), his humanitarian, active stance to help deprived families in starving neighbourhoods is thoroughly honourable and refreshing. They are the ideas of a realist which - while lacking the commercial power punch of a stadium concert - demanding the public hand over loose fivers, is likely to naturally grow with time into a much larger, tangible solution to poverty; perhaps even suggesting their outlook is decades ahead of itself. There is a sophisticated dignity in silent altruism, and even though he doesn't court the attention, I feel it deserves at the very least, a written acknowledgement of the remarkable effort from all involved, for an often forgotten and ignored social underclass.

I was interested in writing an article about Jon Bon Jovi, the man; as opposed to Jon Bon Jovi, the performer. Finishing up, I come to realise doing so is impossible; for they are in effect, one and the same person. If the stage of life is no different from the stage of showmanship, then he is a true giver of light, in a world which could always do with more of the same. Jon Bon Jovi, and everyone at the Soul Foundation, I salute you...

The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation - Official Website 

Official Facebook Page 

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The Heart of a Dog.

Thinking with a soul which only nurtures, heals and cares
Helping warm the coldest nights with love it freely shares
Every day there's sunlight even when awash in rain
Holding onto heaven treating everyone the same
Earth's its happy playground rich in bones and bouncing balls
Alive alert obedient whilst breaking all the rules
Running till its legs give up and cannot stand no more
Then sleeping off the tiredness and starting as before
Once it chooses you as theirs, it never lets you go
Finding new and awesome ways to say I love you so
A stable core which never lies, or cheats or steals or leaves
Determined by the marvel of fresh empathy it breathes
Once inside this hidden home for life you are its friend
Giving love through every beat, from first until the end.


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Loca-Motion.

"Loca the Pug"

Pugs. As much as every last breed of dog carries their own remarkable set of endearing personality traits; the drooping ease of a Bloodhound, the Collie's sharp mind, or the feisty Jack Russell temperament - as a few examples, I have always had a deeply embedded soft spot for that idiosyncratic, sensitive, loveable little creature, commonly known as the Pug. 

I’m not sure why exactly, but I think it has something to do with my belief that Pugs – much like their adoptive families, are by nature, unconventional mavericks; less outside the box than even knowing one exists. For those who have never felt the wonders of a Pug in your life; translating to a Pug in your hearts, nothing sums up these puzzled faced little charmers better, then the story of Loca; the Pug that couldn't run...

Like all things Irish, Loca is loaded in well-intentioned honesty, strong spirit, and a healthy sense of fun. And like all things Irish, a loving family play a pivotal role in the wonders of her story. Adopted as a young pup to the Orr family in Belfast; along with Pug litter brother Alife and joining Boxer siblings Layla and Lucy, it became apparent from a very early age Loca was - at least in terms of mobility, somewhat different from the rest. Born with ataxia; a harmless neurological condition which affects muscle mobility, it left Loca unable to run in a straight line using her front legs  - not that she doesn't try her hardest, causing her to wibble and wobble in all sorts of comedic fashions.

Loved regardless, and shedding light on the subject, in May 2012 her family decided to create a harmless, humorous, and upbeat melodic Irish ditty based around Loca's attempts at motion. Titled "The Pug that Couldn't Run", and expecting to generate a few hundred hits at best, the video became a viral sensation; currently sitting around a constantly rising six million views, and generating a 20,000 strong fan page for the adorable little lady; which I proudly admit to being a member of. A simple video - and the dozen follow up songs, struck the love and attention of a global audience. The question is; how did a singing, goose-stepping Pug, become so popular?

Besides the obvious fact that a flippying floppying Pug is visually unique, the answer lies in the sheer warmth of the video. Loca the Pug touches people hearts, because that is exactly where the idea for the video comes from. Had Loca's family been looking to commercially exploit or manipulate an issue others may consider a disability, the cynical nature would have shone through, and only been an ounce as popular. However, as the germ of the idea was organic, original, and pure in its intent, it affords the story an ease in human connection and empathy. If anything, Loca the Pug teaches us the importance of acceptance, being able to laugh at ourselves, and that beyond the chaos and confusion of daily living, all we really need, is love; a charismatic star who loves roast chicken and hugs, sure does help though.

"Pugs, like their adopted families - don't do conventional"

Life can often be challenging and difficult, and there are more than enough media outlets in our world to pointlessly remind us of its negative aspects. Loca the Pug is one of those humble yet remarkable stories of an idiosyncratic, loveable Pug with a silly walk, surrounded by a family of true animal lovers, who themselves are perhaps a little unconventional; just check out the awesome pug-mobile (pictured right) - it makes the Batmobile look like a dinky toy, which remind us that not only does human warmth grow around the animal spirit, but the animal spirit is nurtured in return for doing so; adding to my theory that dogs and cats (sorry Loca), truly are magical. 

While Loca is the star of the show, there is little doubt the influence of her extended family; both animal and human, are a shining light behind the curtain; and in many ways, I see the whole story as an ensemble piece; Loca being the front-Pug, of course. So from me, six million others, 20,000 fans and Pugs worldwide, I would just like to thank The Orr family - Loca and co included, for entertaining us all, and brightening the clouds of the internet with a little sunlight; even if I still can't get that fecking song out of my head...

Enjoy the video that started it all: "The Pug that Couldn't Run" 
Join Loca's wonderful Facebook page: Loca the Pug

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Guides and Heroes.

"Best friend for life!"

For the next ten minutes, I want you to close your eyes; as well as resist the temptation to open them during this period - as our natural instincts compel us. Without the power of sight, your challenge is to undertake a standard, mundane task; brewing a cup of tea, washing your hands, or simply whipping on a pair of comfortable shoes, the act itself is not important. Just make it one you consider, as the old idiom goes, "you could do with your eyes closed." Once the time has passed, re-open them and continue reading this article...

As much as I love cats, they are a top ten candidate for every list complied of the laziest creatures on Earth; up there with koala bears and hippos. Moggies view work as a human invention, designed to serve their royal needs; which is, oddly enough, a large portion of a felines charm. Dogs, on the other-hand, are tireless workers; grinding away at any given task until sheer fatigue drifts them into a snooze, only to start again once reawaken and loaded with meaty noms. 

Of all wonderful animals of the world, when it comes to aiding human beings, few are as special as the reliable guide dog; and the unbreakable relationship developed with their blind companion. For the first two years of their lives, a small collection of Labradors, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are bred as specifically trained navigators to the blind. It is not a forced scheme, and of the 4,500 registered dogs currently working the United Kingdom, there are many others who simply were not suited for the positions; appropriately re-homed and loved afterwards. The scheme is operated by 1,000 employed workers and 10,000 dedicated volunteers and - as with all volunteers, their efforts come purely from their love of the scheme they devote their time to; in this instance, a mixture of animals and human disability.

Once receiving their doggy honours, these waggy tailed heroes are carefully selected to join his new companion; who, in most cases, is still learning to adapt to the scary realities of a life without physical sight. Now together, this new reliable best-friend provides vital aid in the daily tasks of life; dressing, shopping, and getting around the local area safely, as just a few of the hundreds of skills learned, in order to provide their human with a greater feeling of value and use. No other creature is as universally defined by their giving nature like a dog, and while the guides physical aid is paramount, it is what they provide on a spiritual and psychological level, which I believe serves as an even richer gift in these situations.

The reality of sight never returning; and the fear, isolation, and loneliness it brings, can only be fully understood by those who have experienced it; we can only imagine. But from those who have walked this road, there is a consistent expression having a loyal, faithful companion is a wonderful antidote to the despair, while getting used to their help, company, and love, does eventually eradicate the fear. For the first pivotal six-months of this new, scary life for each human, this one solitary guide dog is a gift from the heavens. For the blind, a guide dog is not only a faithful companion to help cross the street, fetch slippers, or serve as a reminder when the bath water is too high. He is their honest, reliable, heart-filled best friend; sticking by their side every waking hour of the day. They rise and sleep together, eat at the same times, and rest as one. While guide dogs are trained to become the eyes of the blind, their inbuilt abilities to love and nurture can only help to rediscover a lost human soul. Like all good beings, while a dog views direction with his eyes, he sees compassion, with his heart...

Think back to those ten minutes? Scary isn't it? And this is without the notion of darkness as a permanent reality. I want you to try those ten minutes again. Only this time, with your own faithful little companion by your side; knowing he or she isn't going to abandon you, no matter how hard times become. Whether a Labrador, German Shepherd, or charming little Pug - in many capacities, all dogs are both guides and heroes in return; as much as animal lovers are to them. It's a pretty healthy relationship...

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