1
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. Well 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
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In This
Issue:
Anniversary Year 1
Memorable
Moments
2-4
Grunts &Groans 5
Hot Dogs 6
Preventable
Parasites
8
Volunteer
Spotlight
10
Canine Influenza 13
Kids’ Corner 13
20 Years of Collie Rescue in Illinois
By Ellen Keirnan
2
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 wouldnt have the structure it needs
to exist. Aside from
the founding member
and board, the organi-
zation is made up of
many volunteers. No
roles 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 upto 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.Kims 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 whats
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
th
Anniversary, we
look forward to another meaningful
year of being a pricelesspart of Col-
lie Rescue of Greater Illinois, Inc.
Inspirational cake!
Volunteers Matter By Kym McNabney
Madeline
wins!
Memorable Moments of CRGI
Fun times
3
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. Carolines beautifully decorated desserts
were a real treat as well. Jan Melhan and Nicole
Belizaire kept those raffle tickets cominand
Karen Hayes and Susie Moncek patrolled the
lanes for that winning red pin. Gail Diedrichsen.
played our Pink Poodle-Bunnyand 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, Stellas 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
Nelsons 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
Wed 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
4
Memorable Moments of CRGI
Celtic Collies celebrate St. Pats Day
Above —The CRGI delegation;
Left —Brodys 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.
Patricks Day Parade, sponsored by the
West Suburban Irish.
St. Patricks 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. Theyve 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.
5
Grunts&Groans
A Day in the Life of a Collie
By George Hayes
Hhhmmmm, groannnn, hhhmmm, grunt, rrrum-
ble, rrrumble, twitch zzzzWhat? 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, Im Rox-eeee. Im a Tri... Sweet, loyal,
& beautiful. They sometimes call me Roxeee
Hush Hush Quiet Hush.I cant 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 doesnt 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 dadlikes to take
naps. Cool, thats 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
dont 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, were eye level and all those other
dogs are down on the floor. Hey, what? Ok ok Ill
get down there too. Its my turn now to stand on
a wiggly board so Dadcan 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 vetand having a
yelling match with that motor cycle. Roxeeee
Hush Hush Quiet Hush. Yep, thats 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 dont know
its 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
hes 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. Dadcalls him Mail's Here”.
Dadseems 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, Momis 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 Its dark out. Its time for all of us to
nap around the big box. Sometimes there is an-
other collie but hes 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. Its 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.
6
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 dogs 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 cars 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
7
> 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 dogs
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 pets 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)
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
9
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)
10
As the old adage
goes, Do what you
love and youll 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. Shes 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, Sherylees 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, Were getting a gun or a dog. Sherylees
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
failuresbecause shes 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 times 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 dogseyes. I
started drawing some of my fostered dogseyes. 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 didnt capture her ex-
pression like I wanted. So I tried drawing her, instead. Sherylee
continued drawing other foster dogseyes 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
Coals portrait
The artist and her original
CRGI dog, Coal (formerly
Wags)
11
the followin spring, and my
husband said, Draw some-
thing!I laughed. I told him I
couldnt 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
werent 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
shed 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 crazierpeople
immediately wanted to know if I could draw their
own dogs.
Shes come a long way since that cookie
exchange. Shes portrayed dogs from stunning
champions to beloved family mutts, creating
treasured memories. She has also drawn cats,
and even an exotic bearded dragon. Shes 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 Ive created
for them is so meaningful. Their reaction
was so unexpected when I first started
out, but Im so glad I can help people in
such a meaningful way.
Shes 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 its 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 dogseyes, 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 dogs 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 Ive
been given a gift that for years I sadly did not use
is unfortunatebut now? I know why Ive been
given this blessing.Sherylees 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
12
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 collies 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 loveYet 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! Weve 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.
13
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 membersart,
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
Georges 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 hotThanks Cayden for sharing.
Canine Influenza and CRGI