From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

JO Burgess Oracle, Arizona — Wed, 20 May 2009 02:32:04 GMT

From Clyde: I am a two year old pitbull, adopted in
february of 08. My family loves me very much. I am very gentle and affectionate and show my love every day. I was adopted from Southern Arizona Humane Society in Tucson. I wish every dog could be as lucky as I am!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Susan, Dobbs Ferry, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 02:42:03 GMT

unfortunately, we tried the adoption route with a pit mix and it was a disaster, the dog chewed through our house and intimidated our daughter. We tried everything, trainer, behavior modification, etc and I have grown up with dogs my whole life. In the end we had to return the dog with a broken hearted child who still loves the poor creature. This could have been avoided had the shelter been forthcoming with the history of the dog...... Taking on a shelter animal is a big risk and I don't want to be made to feel guilty if we choose to have an animal join our already hectic family that has no baggage. I love that there are those who are willing to do it..... and I give generously to shelter charities...

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Faith, Providence RI — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:56:44 GMT

I was so touched to see this story, especially focusing on pit bulls and older dogs. In 2005 my then-boyfriend, now-fiance came home from his job as a kennel worker with a dog. She was old, rickety, and a pit bull mix! Her name was Emma and we took her in at the age of 14. She was going to be put to sleep the day my fiance brought her home, and we were able to provide her with another three happy years of life with our other rescue dog Lucas. She brought so much joy and love into our lives, and though it was heartbreaking to let her go after only having her for three years, we felt so blessed to have had the chance to take care of Emma. If you are thinking of adopting, please go with an older dog. They are truly deserving of love and shelter.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Lara, Virginia Beach, VA — Wed, 20 May 2009 13:11:57 GMT

We adopted an AmStaff - all part of the pit/bully breeds. We LOVE her!!!! She was part of a litter of 11 that was originally set to be destroyed and we were fortuneate to rescue her. We believe all of the litter went to families. Lucy is the most gentle dog - she knows when to play and when to be gentle (with babies, children and even older adults). We have gone through dog training classes to be respondsible owners and this has certainly helped both us and Lucy be a wonderful asset to our family and the breed as well. We would gladly adopt another pit breed and advocate to families just by showing Lucy - there are bad owners, not bad dogs!!! Ask questions when you adopt, many places have some information and will gladly give you what ever they can about the animal to insure that the animal will never enter back into another shelter. We interviewed shelters just as many required us to apply for an animal. We adopted from a "no kill shelter", which is like a last stop for animals who would otherwise be destroyed in other shelters. We asked about their living arrangements, behavior around children, and so on. Our rescue had animals living with them and their children. Lucy was very socialized when we adopted her. There are wonderful animals waiting for all types of families and individuals...Please adopt...thank you Jill for a wonderful segment!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Paula Witt, Jacksonville, Florida — Wed, 20 May 2009 13:21:12 GMT

We have a 12 year old Poodle named "Poodle" who was found living under a dumpster, here in Jacksonville,Fla. We took her in 6 years ago and she is the absoluote BEST dog we have ever had. We love dogs and I tell you, they know when they have been given a second chance. Everyone loves her and she loves everyone. I wish there was a way we could adopt Rose, I think she'd be a wonderful additio9n to our "elderly" family. We are in our 60's, newly retired and would not be as happy without our beloved Poodle.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Christina Crawford, Oklahoma — Wed, 20 May 2009 14:02:56 GMT

I would love to have Milly! We owen 2 full pitts & 1 pit mix. I love all of them! The best dogs EVER!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Nicole, Chester MD — Wed, 20 May 2009 14:57:45 GMT

My husband and I adopted our baby Eli a little over a year ago. He is a lab/ pitbull and is just the most loving dog we've ever seen. His favorite thing to do, besides get treats, is to snuggle in bed with us on weekends- his head on the pillows snoring in our ears! He's had a few issues, chewing in socks and such, nothing we had to work too hard on to correct, but the fact that he came to us potty-trained and learned to sit, beg, give paws, lay down, roll over, give people kisses and dance within weeks makes up for a pair of chewed socks any day. Yes, we rescued him, but my husband and I are the lucky ones. We'll always adopt and urge everyone else to seriously consider adopting a pet.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Lacey Matthews, Norfolk, VA — Wed, 20 May 2009 15:16:41 GMT

I wish people would get the idea out of their heads that "shelter dogs" are somehow inferior or more challenging than dogs from pet shops or breeders. There is no such thing as a "shelter dog," really-- there are just dogs. They all have hang-ups and baggage, even purebred puppies. I've had four purebred dogs over the years, all obtained from "reputable" breeders, all taken to positive-reinforcement obedience classes as puppies, and they all had issues.

The borzois wanted to kill other dogs--I later learned that this is common in the breed, probably a throwback to their days spent hunting wolves (my theory is that they view other dogs as "wolves.") My Irish wolfhound, by contrast, was frightened of her own shadow. No idea why--she was never abused or harmed in any way as far as we knew. Our Great Pyrenees barked her head off day and night--that's because they are bred to guard and herd sheep--and barking is part of their job, or so they think.

I now have a large, shaggy mutt adopted from a rescue group that pulled him out of a shelter. He was extremely timid at first, but with lots of socialization, he's come out of his shell and is a friendly, happy boy. Best of all, he came to me pre-housebroken and past the age of teething. He's never once had an "accident" or chewed on anything other than his approved chew toys. He's also an excellent watchdog--barks to warn me of intruders, but not excessively.

He's just an all-around great dog who happened to have had a rocky start in life. I'm proud to have given him a second chance.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Len Sonntag, Allentown, PA — Wed, 20 May 2009 15:42:35 GMT

My wife and I tried to find more info on the cocker, Cody, at th nycacc.org site. This dog was not in the adoptable list! Why??

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Nancy Hassel — Wed, 20 May 2009 16:06:08 GMT

I was so excited to see a story on the Today show about adopting Pit Bulls, pit mixes & older dogs. It is about time! As one of the Founding Members of the Dog Federation of New York, and proud owner of my own pit bull rescue who is now almost 8 years old, and such a great, fun, funny, obedient and smart dog. Thank you Jill for bringing this story to fruition. And your American Bulldog Petey is beautiful, and such a good boy - thank you for rescuing him! Pit Bulls are used as Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Rescue Dogs you name it - such a great breed.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Phyllis Nunn, NC — Wed, 20 May 2009 16:44:26 GMT

GREAT stories today - - - both the adoptable dogs AND the circus elephants! THANK YOU, Today, for caring enough to focus on these important animal issues!! Jill Rappaport - you rock!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

delighted — Wed, 20 May 2009 16:54:04 GMT

What a wonderful segment! I hope these continue as they provide great inspiration to everyone to save the lives of these sweet creatures!!!! Excellent job again Jill!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

S Brown, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:39:28 GMT

If you are interested in adopting Millie or Cody, please contact Animal Care & Control of New York City at 212 788 4000, email at media@nycacc.org.

For more information or to donate, please visit our website at www.nycacc.org

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Coleen, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:46:19 GMT

Thank you so much for positive pit bull press!

And Susan Dobbs, please do not characterize your own experience as if it is true of every shelter, or even of every dog your shelter adopts out.

Yes, many shelters do not know a dog's history. And they will extensively evaluate dogs to find out if they are adoptable, and which homes will suit them best.

BUT, the shelter is very stressful, and it is not uncommon for a dog's true personality to shine through at home. In the future, your best bet is adopt an animal that is being fostered.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Megan Yaner, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:59:09 GMT

Thank you so much for airing this segment!! I enjoyed it very much. I am a volunteer at NY AC&C and they truly need all the help they can get. They don't receive nearly as much attention or donations as ASPCA (call Sarah MacLachlan!), but they need it more because they have a contract with the city to take it every single animal found or surrendered, which of course will result in some humane euthanization. Every animal adopted from here is saving a life. The staff are extremely caring and they take excellent care of every single animal as I have witnessed firsthand as a volunteer. They make extraordinary efforts to make the animals' stay there pleasant and healthy and to give every animal a chance to be adopted. Please continue the exposure to this wonderful organization- they need it!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Gina, New York — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:59:21 GMT

So enjoyed the Bow to Wow segment...should be weekly!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Debbie, NY, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:59:30 GMT

I volunteer at the AC&C in Manahattan and am so grateful that NBC is doing this series. Every time I am at the shelter I see wonderful dogs who have the potential of bringing joy to anyone's life. Please keep doing the show!!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Sanjina, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:00:19 GMT

This is a wonderful segment and I'd love to see more! It is sometimes hard to see through the hardship that shelter animals have endured. After a short cleanup - it is easy to see that most of these animals are loving, loyal and good looking pets. Kudos to NBC and Bow to Wow!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Meg, NYC — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:03:00 GMT

Thank you for this wonderful segment. It is important to give these animals the publicity they need to get adopted. The people at Animal Care and Control of New York City deserve credit too for working so hard to care for these animals and get them adopted.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Alexandra Kuvaldina, Brooklyn, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:06:13 GMT

A fantastic effort to show awareness of how many animals need love out there. Great job you guys :)

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Christine, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:10:33 GMT

I LOVE this segment! I loved the first segment a couple of weeks ago but this one with the older dogs and the beautiful pitbull! Thank you so much NBC - how brilliant you are! I volunteer at the shelter where the dogs came from and know how great the older dogs and the pitbull MIXES are first-hand. Thanks for pointing that out!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Laura, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:12:17 GMT

Thank you Jill for this wonderful segment. Would love to see this segment on a regular basis! Thank you for giving these animals the love and attention they deserve.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Julie, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:14:28 GMT

Thank you for picking such a wide variety of dogs and showing how they are great pets! Loved that you had martha with the pit mix!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Ann Baird, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:15:46 GMT

Kudos to Jill Rappaport and the Today Show for showcasing the wonderful dogs up for adoption from the AC&C. And thank you for sticking up for pit bulls and doing your part to de-stymigmatize these super, sweet dogs. I used to volunteer at the AC&C so I have first-hand knowledge of how loving these dogs are. Please do these stories more often! There are so many dogs who need homes.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Ben, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:16:40 GMT

Great Segment. This should be an annual event. There are so many loving but mistreated and abandoned dogs at NYACC looking for a home. As a volunteer at NYACC, I can't stress how valuable positive media exposure is to aiding these dogs in their search for homes.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Gigi, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:16:45 GMT

I am a volunteer at AC&C in NYC and I want to THANK YOU for doing this segment and I hope you continue to do so. Everytime I go to the shelter, it breaks my heart that I cannot rescue all the dogs. But with this program, these dogs will have a better chance to get a loving home. Thanks Jill- You are the best!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Shital, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:20:53 GMT

I was Millie's foster mom and I cannot begin to explain was a great dog she is. She is so well behaved and great with all people (men, women, and children) and dogs. She loves to cuddle, but is also playful. She loves to play fetch. For anybody that's apprehensive about adopting a pit bull, there is absolutely no reason to be. Millie is the perfect dog!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Yana Panchishina, Brooklyn, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:22:33 GMT

We have an adopted pit-mix from the Animal Care & Control of NYC. He is the goofiest and the sweetest dog!!! I adopted him in February of '05 and truth be told he was a bit problematic in the beginning. But all it took was some training classes, patience, and an addition of my boyfriend's (a bit older and wiser) staffordshire into the pack to make my baby shine! Our family pack (including a cat) has fostered a couple of other dogs and two litters of kittens and I am so happy that I have my doggie to share my life with :) I would recommend that everyone who is thinking of getting a dog, a cat (or even a baby for that matter; we have one now also and the training with the dogs really helped) to consider fostering from the AC&C or another shelter. Fostering really gives you the "inside look" into owning a dog, gives you the opportunity to adopt, and doesn't tie you down right away as a regular adoption would. Although, if you know you are ready to adopt, go for it!!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Colleen M. — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:24:39 GMT

Jill - Thank you so much for the Bow to Wow segments! This is the second one that I have seen, please keep them coming! Anyone watching can see you are a true animal lover, these make overs are very inspiring. I'm looking forward to the next segment. Thank you for all you are doing for sweet, fun shelter animals - they really are wonderful.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Chris, Watertown, SD — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:28:27 GMT

Aawww. I love segments like this! Please do more! They make my day

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Jane Warshaw — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:31:23 GMT

I was surprised by the comments of Susan ( Dobbs Ferry). As a former foster parent of two dogs and lots of cats and mother cats with kittens, I know future adopters can get great in-depth information about the temperament, personality and health concerns of the pet. Last summer I fostered a momcat and six kittens that had been abandoned in a park in Queens. It was wonderful helping them grow healthier, stronger and happier and eventually go to great homes where they made their new families so happy. Fostering is good for people too. You can see how you can make such a difference in a cat or dog. Giving them a healthy, loving home to grow strong in and get off to a good start.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Camp Bow Wow, LIC, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:37:05 GMT

Thank you so much for doing this segment!!! We fostered Cody for the past week here at Camp Bow Wow and we are so excited to see her TV debut! She is the sweetest little girl who gives the best kisses. I know she will be a wonderful addition to a loving family!!! We have had so many calls about this segment, I hope you continue to help the AC&C and all our furry friends that need loving homes. Thank you!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Grace Colangelo, Brooklyn NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:41:17 GMT

Thank you for putting in good words about pit bull and pit bull-mixes. Please continue to educate television viewers about what wonderful pets they are.
Perhaps puppy mills would go out of business if everyone would go adopt at the shelter!
And if pit bulls lost that horrible reputation, they would be less appealing to the types of people who abuse them.
Thank you also for advocating adoptions of older dogs.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Mike Levin, New York, N.Y. — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:44:09 GMT

Wonderful show and a subject that needs more exploration. Though pit bull mixes predominate in pounds, they are, after all terriers, which are not for everyone. But, as a volunteer at the city pound in Brooklyn, NY, I have seen dogs of many breeds and ages available. It may take a few visits, but people looking for the right pet invariably will find it.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Wanda, new york city ny — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:45:38 GMT

I love these segments!!!
I feel so positive about our humanity when I witness how caring we can be if we are just asked.
These shows allow the best that exists in all of us to pour out.
Thank you

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Jane Warshaw — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:45:44 GMT

I was surprised by the comments of Susan ( Dobbs Ferry). As a former foster parent of two dogs and lots of cats and mother cats with kittens, I know future adopters can get valuable in-depth information about the temperament, personality and health concerns of the pet. Last summer I fostered a momcat and six kittens that had been abandoned in a park in Queens. It was wonderful helping them grow healthier, stronger and happier and eventually go to great homes where they made their new families so happy. Fostering is good for people too. You can see how you can make such a difference in a cat or dog. Giving them a healthy, loving home to grow strong in and get off to a good start. Now is the time that kittens and puppies need foster homes more than ever. ( It's the season!)

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

V Bordoni, New York City, New York — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:48:58 GMT

Jill, thank you so much for the dog segment this morning, we loved it. We have 2 shelter dogs and one is a pit/mix. What a dog, just wondeful. We would not get a dog any other way.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

stefi preiss — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:50:13 GMT

wonderful segment it's such an important thing NBC is doing by exposing these shelter animals to the masses. The dogs in the shelter are very lovely and deserve a second chance just like some people.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Katherine, Brooklyn, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:51:29 GMT

Thank you so much for doing this segment!! I am a volunteer at the AC&C in New York and it is incredible to see our shelter be an example and enable the public to see firsthand the social crisis that is going on all over the country. PLEASE do more of this segment! It helps so much to get them adopted, especially for those difficult circumstances like these select dogs had. And to anyone considering adopting a pet, please go to your local shelter and give a helpless sweetie a chance at a great life. The ones who had a rough start deserve a second chance, and don't forget that there are countless animals who have no baggage and are just victims of circumstance!!! Thanks again!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Patricia P, NYC — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:52:43 GMT

Thank you so much for helping Animal Care and Control bring awareness to the amazing animals that are waiting desperately in our city shelters. The team at the AC&C has dedicated their careers to saving the lives of abused and abandoned animals and they need every bit of help and attention that we cn give them!

The power of the press is remarkable. By recognizing the AC&C and their hard work, you help to create awareness and change the opinions of countless Americans that still don’t realize how many animals suffer from the efforts of greedy breeders and pet shops.

It should no longer be socially acceptable to purchase animals that have been carelessly bred for profit and then dump them in shelters later when they are no longer young and cute.

Thank you again for covering this amazing story! Spay and neuter your pets people!!!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Lisa, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:54:36 GMT

It was great to see this wonderful segment about adopting pitbull mixes and older dogs. They all deserve loving, permanent homes. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope to see more bow to wow segments in the future!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

catherine new york city — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:55:26 GMT

great show and thank you for doing this and letting people in NY know what loveable animals there are out there. Everyone likes those puppies in the petstores without even thinking about the horrible places they come from and what breed faults they can have. I have fostered for years and know how many many loveable animals are waiting in shelters in NY. Do think about adopting from there also if anyone wants a REAL EXPERIENCE try fostering a litter of kittens for 2 months. You get to have kittens around, you will have saved their lives and the shelters will get them adopted after they are socialized so it is a short term committment. Please keep showing this segment and thank you. Best wishes

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

H.Bean, NY, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 18:58:22 GMT

My last three dogs were pitt-bulls and were adopted from the Animal Care & Control of New York. These dogs were loving, smart, great with other dogs and great with children. Dogs, like us humans, need training and nuturing. That someone has a bad experience with a dog that they adopted from a shelter is more a reflection of them and their poor judgment, impusiveness and/or laziness than it is a reflection of the dog or the shelter. I firmly believe in adopting shelter dogs. They are great dogs and are the most in need of help and I have had great experiences with everyone of the dogs I have adopted. They become part of the family

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Esther K. — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:10:14 GMT

Dear Jill,
I volunteer at New York City's Animal Care and Control Thank you sooooooo much for showcasing some our wonderful animals. I have a particular fondness for the oldies-but-goodies, and any pit ... anytime. We need more volunteers, particularly in our Brooklyn Shelter and the Staten Island Shelter. And we are always in need of people to foster our dogs and cats.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Kosin Huang, Brooklyn, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:13:10 GMT

I volunteer at the shelter and it's the most joyful thing to see dogs get adopted. I love the Bow Wow segment, which shows how much hope there is for these abandoned doggies. Please keep doing these segments so we can rescue more pits and the like!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Melanie Freitag Hadley,Ma. — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:15:52 GMT

Kudos to NBC for featuring these handsome dogs who deserve a loving home.Keep up the good work.Sincerely,Melanie Freitag

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Ian Gallagher — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:20:04 GMT

I love Bow Wow!!! Keep it going!!!!!!!!!!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Janet, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:25:05 GMT

Please keep these shows coming. They really show how wonderful all of these animals truly are. For me, it's the human race that needs the training. These animals just want to be loved and give it unconditionally. We have a lot to learn from them.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Grace Yi, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:31:12 GMT

The Today Show absolutely rocks, especially because of the Bow to Wow segment! I love watching it because it's both entertaining and heart-warming. I'm a true animal lover and it's so great to see that NBC cares so much about our four-legged friends.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Stephanie, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:31:19 GMT

Wonderful to see the foster program getting some exposure and the dogs getting adopted. Would really love to see some more cats in the spotlight.
Per the ACC website from March 08 thru Feb 09:
40,074 cats+dogs entered ACC: 12,440 dogs and 27,634 cats;
The outcomes are shown as follows...
22,345 Adopted: 7,170 dogs and 15,175 cats (I assume this includes all animals going out to rescue groups and no-kill shelters);
1,529 Returned to Owner: 1,230 dogs and 299 cats;
14,204 Euthanized: 3,385 dogs and 10,819 cats;
1,996 are unaccounted for per the website: 655 dogs and 1,341 cats (some of this is probably the animals still in the shelter at the time of the report, but not all).
I am very happy for the dogs, but just want to show the HUGE number of cats also in need. They tend to get overlooked. If you can foster or adopt a cat/kitten please contact ACC or a rescue group. Trap-Neuter-Return groups also need help and this is the way to reduce euthanasia. If you can volunteer or donate to a TNR group now is the time. All shelters are completely overwhelmed already, and with summer approaching, they will be overflowing with cats, litters upon litters of kittens and nursing moms. And most important of all PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS!!! If you have not had your dog or cat fixed because you want to raise puppies or kittens please re-read the numbers above and just email ACC or a rescue group and foster a litter. You can get all the fun of having the little ones around and not take homes away from the animals in need at the shelter. Keep up the good press for the dogs, and please also get the word out about the cats. I volunteered at ACC and at a TNR group and have fostered several kittens. Shelters can not do it alone. We all have to be responsible and have our pets fixed, and tell our friends and neighbors to do so. There are so many great cats out there (yes, many lovely cats at the city shelters) and they need homes too.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Jennifer, NY, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:34:32 GMT

Jill,

Thanks so much for running this segment. As a volunteer at the ACC I have had the opportunity to work with a number of the dogs like the ones on the show this morning and I can’t tell you what a great impact this has. Please keep up the good work,

Jennifer

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Carole Hughes, New York, New York — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:38:59 GMT

Jill: Thank you so much for showcasing older dogs and pit mixes. I have been fortunate to have a rescue greyhound who lives to be 15 and my mixed breed dog who is now 14 and older dogs are amazing! Please, please convince the powers to be to have this as a regular segment, like ambush makeover for dogs who need loving homes. New Yorkers are dog friendly and we need to make this great city to have NO MORE HOMELESS ANIMALS!! Thanx again.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Robin, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:41:34 GMT

Great segment today! There are tons of great dogs in shelters! I hate seeing news about puppy mills. Please do not buy dogs from a pet store! Adoption and rescue is the way to go! When you buy from a pet store you are supporting puppy mills.

As for the Susan, I am sorry to your dog that you were willing to give up on it. As someone who has had dogs before, you should have a better sense of gauging the energy of an animal and whether it's a right fit for your home. Not all animals unfortunate enough to be at a shelter have "baggage." The right owner/pack leader can help any dog.

I am really glad that this segment came on. There are tons of great animals out there that would be excellent pets (no "baggage"). If people could get over the stigma that shelter=something wrong with animal. Many times the animals are there bc there is something wrong with the previous owner!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Joan, Lake Ariel, PA — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:41:44 GMT

I really enjoyed the show, and wish to see more Bow Wow segments, it is great to see dogs getting adopted that need homes. Keep up the good work!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Lisa, New York, N.Y. — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:51:05 GMT

I too volunteer at Manhattan AC&C but work with the cats. While I'm sure it's much more difficult to brings cats to a TV set, I would love to see this segment showcase cats as well (and rabbits too -- AC&C also has them available for adoption), perhaps by filming in the shelter, where the cats will feel more secure. Like older dogs, older or even just young adult cats have a harder time finding permanent homes because so many people fall for the cuteness of a kitten. But adult cats can be so loving, are all grown up and out of the run-around-like-crazy stage, are often litter-box trained and good with people and families. Jill, thank you so much for your hard work in showcasing AC&C. I ask that if possible you try to help our feline friends as well!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Maria Ling, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:53:57 GMT

I have a dog and a cat already so I know how much goes into raising pets. I would absolutely adopt in the future only if vets fees and medication were provided for.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Laurie, Maspeth, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:05:54 GMT

I am also a volunteer at ACC, and like so many others have walked hundreds of dogs there. The pitbulls are by far my favorite breed to play with. They are not for everybody--you need to really have your act together as an owner--but they have so much love to give if properly managed. The ACC gives these animals and thousands of others some of the only kindness they have ever known, and they do so on a shoestring budget and very little public support. Ms. Rappaport picked a worthy candidate for her segment. Animal Care and Control of NY really deserves this. On behalf of all the great animals without a spotlight, thank you!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Elizabeth Wood, New York, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:17:19 GMT

So many dogs are under appreciated or misunderstood!! It's beyond fantastic to see certain breeds and older dogs getting some positive attention! PLEASE keep this segment going -- maybe we can offset some of the misguided feelings that people have towards strong breeds, and shine a light on the benefits of adopting and older dog!! I adopted my dog when he was 8 years old -- he's 13 now, and he's the best dog I've ever had!! LOVE BOW to WOW!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Laurifer, Queens, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:17:20 GMT

This was a fantastic segment. I am a volunteer at AC&C Brooklyn, and I meet so many wonderful dogs with such resilient spirits, who deserve loving forever homes. Thank you so much for bringing awareness to these dogs and to this shelter system. It makes a world of difference to the dogs and to the people who work hard every day to find them new homes.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Liz Curran, Eugene, OR — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:47:01 GMT

Bow to Wow is great! There is another group of dogs in need of attention...those not in shelters but with loving owners who are no longer able (financially) to have their dogs professionally groomed. This of course leads to matting etc. Try as I might, and I'm sure there are many of us in this situation, my Spudd & Oliver are not so keen on my awful "grooming" skills, not to mention that I cannot trim their nails. They've gone from professional grooming at least 3X a year...to me..and suffering the consequences. No one seems to have any ideas where to find low-to-no cost basic services for owners' (esp seniors) dogs. Any ideas???

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Jessica , Brooklyn, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:48:51 GMT

I am a dog FOSTER mom for the Animal Control Center in Brooklyn, and it has been one of the BEST experiences of my life. I am a full time science teacher and a mom of two dogs already (a 16yr old Collie mix and a 3 yr old Pointer mix, both shelter dogs). Over our spring break, I decided to foster a pit bull from the shelter. Hoping to save a life and add some life to my household. Both goals were met. Angel (our foster dog) is a little lover. She craves a good snuggle, she loves to play with the 3yr old male dog and absolutely adores car rides and dog parks. She is marked with big scars on one side of her body, but her head and her heart are unwounded and filled with love. Maybe you aren't ready to commit to a dog for the rest of your life, BUT YOU CAN FOSTER AND SAVE A LIFE (most likely add a lot of fun to your life as well!). Please look into FOSTERING! www.nycacc.org/foster

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Eleanor Lang — Wed, 20 May 2009 20:54:55 GMT

I have a dog and two cats, all rescues and all amazing animals -- keep up the great work! There are so many animals needing homes that it seems criminal to ever buy a dog or cat from a pet shop or breeder, and letting people know that great dogs and cats are available (and for nearly free, at that) is half the battle.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Shelley, NYC, NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:04:06 GMT

I would like to put in a word for the NYC Animal Care Control cats, too! My 14 yr old daughter and I are fostering 10 kittens and 1 mom cat at the moment from 4 different litters and yes, it a LOT of work(we also own seven dogs, one is a pitt-bull rescue, the best ever)!!! BUT we needed to help in some small way and these kitties like the dogs did NOT ask to be abandoned, they did not ask to be abused and forgotten, it is NOT their fault that they are out on the street; it is the fault of thoughtless humans who consider animals to less than themselves, as soon as life gets tough or busy or interest wanes... OUT GOES the DOG, OUT GOES the CAT, NOT FAIR, NOT FAIR...so PLEASE ADOPT from NYC ACC they are doing a GREAT job in a very difficult economy! They have terrific volunteer coordinators and wonderful volunteers!!! AND by the way there is nothing better than watching these little babies open their eyes and take in the big, new world. My daughters are thrilled to be helping and we are fostering as a family service project! Thank you to Maggie & Iris for letting us be part of the ACC family!!!! PLEASE spay & neuter your animals!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Kevin, New York, New York — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:25:53 GMT

Dear Jill, Thanks so much for segments like these. Animal adoption is truly the way to go! I am so glad that NBC features rescue groups such as the ACC and the amazing work they do.
Keep up the good work!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

amanda, ny ny — Wed, 20 May 2009 22:15:54 GMT

wow, what a great segment. thanks for showing everyone how great shelter pets are! i have adopted 4 dogs from shelters over the years, and each one has been a gem. nothing makes me sadder than to hear people say that shelter animals are damaged, or inferior.

please keep up the good work!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Evelyn Kiimber, Boston, MA — Wed, 20 May 2009 23:14:58 GMT

Thank you for doing the segment on adoption of older dogs from shelters. I would love to see this become a regular segment on your show. It was truly wonderful.

I adopted an 8 year old dog, and she is now 18 years old and still enjoying her life. So you can have many years of love even when adopting an older dog. It is a special blessing.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Jenelle (AC&C Foster Parent), NY — Wed, 20 May 2009 23:17:51 GMT

I was very fortunate to be given the opportunity to foster Rose prior to her being on the show today. I was on the set at the time the show aired and I cried like a baby when I saw how great all the dogs looked after their makeovers. I know that they will find great homes with loving families and I'm glad I can be a part of that. I agree that many people seem to think that shelter dogs are somehow inferior to a dog purchased at a puppy store or from a breeder. I have Chihuahua mix that I adopted from the AC&C 6 years ago and she is the BEST DOG EVER! Thanks to everyone that helped with this segment. I know that a lot of work went into this. Special thanks to the groomers, coordinators, transporters, Richard, Jill and all the foster parents. The show was a success and I cant wait to foster more dogs for this segment!!!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Andy, New York, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 02:22:23 GMT

It's great to see an NBC and the Today Show segment that really makes a difference in the lives of both animals and people. We need more segments like this. It's uplifting; something we could all use in our lives. It definitely makes me think and take stock of what's important in life.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Robin, New York, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 03:44:58 GMT

This was amazing! I hope this becomes a regular segment. As a foster parent for NYCACC, I am so happy to see NBC showcasing some of the city's wonderful, adoptable pets. Animals have been especially hurt by the economy as people have had to surrender their pets due to a loss of income or the need to move. Please consider volunteering to foster animals from your local shelter and always adopt from a shelter.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Pat, Maspeth, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 04:22:17 GMT

Thank you so much for airing this segment. These are the kind of shows that really warm my heart. I have owned many animals and am currently the owner of two dogs, one cat, one bird. All of our animals have been found and/or rescued. One of our dogs is a pit bull, and is the kissiest, sweetest dog we've ever owned. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this breed to anyone. The breed is so misunderstood.
The AC&C does a fantastic job considering the overwhelming number of animals brought in every day.
There are so many wonderful animals there with eyes just begging for a second chance. Thank you for calling attention to these hopefuls. Please continue these special segments and to be a voice for all those
pleading eyes. Perhaps if it became a weekly, if not daily, segment you might spark your viewers into doing the right thing and adopting/rescuing as opposed to pet stores and puppy mills. With the right blog and advertisement you could do wonders for the animals, for the cause, and snag a bunch of viewers at the same time. It's a win, win situation for all!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Oksana, Brooklyn, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 04:44:14 GMT

DO NOT believe the negative hype about Pit Bulls. If the dog feels provoked, he will attack. Sometimes little kids like to play with dogs like they do with their toys. These are live animals, not toys. Adults please, educate ur kids about proper treatment before blaming it all the animal who can't speak for its self. Come on.. Stop the ignorance. They're the most loyal living thing out there.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Joel Venables , Hudson Valley , NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 10:31:58 GMT

I saved one Pit bull great Dane at the NYC ACC The people there are very nice and you can just go right in and look at the dogs ready for adoption or request to see some that are in danger .( You can foster and just apply for that easly also ) They need so much help about 20,000 dogs a year never get adopted . I have Started a rescue and saved 40 since the first one in Nov. It has cost me a ton but i get pictures sent to me every night with the dogs that are in super danger and i had to work on it . I put my carpentry jobs on hold and just tried to help while i watch my kids and Wife works i try and get out C list ads or whatever i can do . do home visits etc...
Money is a huge problem the dogs have destroyed my basement , phone , yard , car LOL .
But is so worth it for them , my kids and me .
Its so easy to go there or check out there website . You dont have to save 40 -- try to just save one every 6 months . get a friend to help. ( I used all mine up ) lol
thanks everyone please help the Pitbulls. some are tested with the Saferr test for aggression and a lot are just big pussy cats . I wish i could add you all to my elist . let me know if you want to part of our little rescue . THX THX joel

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Meg, Rosendale, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 12:00:42 GMT

Thank you for featuring a Pit Bull mix on the Bow-Wow segment on 5/18/09 and for highlighting the special dogs at AC & C.
Pit Bulls and pit bull mixes make wonderful pets but unfortunately there's a lot of misinformation regarding this breed much of which is perpetuated by the media. It is good to see the Today show bucking that trend and featuring Millie who is like any other homeless dog needing a home and a family to love her, she just happens to be a Pit Bull.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Dana, New York, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:31:38 GMT

I fostered a large american bulldog pit mix through Animal Care and Control of NYC, and it was such a rewarding experience, it still brings tears to my eyes as I write this. On the one hand, it was not the easiest endeavor to take on the additional responsibility, but on the other, things worth doing seem to rarely be easy. I work at an emergency animal hospital, and sadly, many animals are abandoned there. I knew she would have little chance of being adopted out of the shelter, being a pit mix, as well as being such a large, strong dog (about 80 lbs when she came to us but skinny as she was brought in after being locked inside an abandoned house for two weeks). I am still in touch with her new family and it is so incredibly moving to get pictures of her frolicking in her big yard by the beach, and snuggling in the arms of her family. :) I am having trouble expressing how good it felt to save her. In any case, I will definitely do it again, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has any inkling of interest to get involved. I've only saved one so far, but I'm guessing she appreciated the effort. :))

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Claudia Fernández, L.A., California — Thu, 21 May 2009 16:20:49 GMT

Hello, I want to thank the segment....is very important to encourage the culture of adoption, these animals need us, every day thousands are killed or abandoned in shelters or dog centers, its very important promove the adoption and segments like this, in that way more people get involved. Once again, thank you.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

LuLu and LoLLy, Austin, TX — Thu, 21 May 2009 18:22:00 GMT

Maltese dogs LuLu and LoLLy think this is a wonderful article! We love it when people put a positive light on adoption! Keep up the good work!

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Misa, Goshen, NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 18:25:00 GMT

Very happy to see this segment on your show! In this day and age, with good training advice available (even for free! see dogstardaily.com) very easily, it's much easier to learn how to help a shelter dog acclimate to a new and better life.

From Bow to Wow: Pooches get a second chance at life

Denisha W. Queens NY — Thu, 21 May 2009 23:40:16 GMT

i love the work you guys do!!
i really think that you should have a show on "Animal Planet" so more can be inspired by you!!!

keep up the good work!!!