Hi there,
I know this may seem a little out of the blue but I wanted to email you to just say how appreciative I am that there is someone out there willing to devote their life to saving the lives of animals in need. I find the great dane or giant size dogs in general amazing and I have always wanted one. It makes me feel good that I know there is someone out there helping them when most people would rather help the smaller dogs because its “easier”. I would love to one day be able to devot my life to helping dogs like you have done. I also would like to help you in any way you may need. I do not have a lot of money, but I would love to devot my time. I have seen these play dates that you have posted and I wanted to further inquire about that. How do you become an approved volunteer home?
Also is there anything else you may need a volunteer for?

Thanks,
Patricia Byrne

I am so sorry about Jaxon and I hope with time you will feel better knowing his time with you had to be the best ever. You and your husband seem like wonderful people and I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that us coming over today wasn’t too much for you – if I had of known I would have happily rescheduled. Take good care of yourself – thank you for being so kind to us today considering the situation you were experiencing.

Heather

DEAR GWEN / SEAN + FAMILY,

JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW HOW SORRY WE ARE…..AND THAT WE ARE THINKING OF -BHRR- ……..

JAXSON DIDN’T HAVE TO KNOCK ON HEAVENS’ DOOR….BECAUSE THE GATES’ WERE –WIDE–OPEN FOR –HIM- !!

GOD IS PLEASED TO HAVE HIS NEW SPOKESMAN…..AND NOW –JAXSON’S– –> **WINGS’** WILL DO HIS WALKING………

BUT JAXSON WAS HAPPY TO HAVE HIS STOP/OVER @ BHRR….BEFORE HIS –LAST– JOURNEY TO THE SILVER/CLOUDS’ ABOVE.

HE KNOWS’ THE LOVE SEAN/GWEN HAD FOR HIM…….I CAN’T SAY ANYTHING THAT -GWEN- HASN’T ALREADY EXPRESSED……..

EVERYONE WILL MISS –JAXSON– ……..BUT HE HAS OTHER – WORK – TO DO NOW………AND HE WANTS’ BHRR TO HELP THE NEXT/ONE

IN NEED.

—> GOD BLESS ……… *** BIRCH / HEAVEN *** ………….

LOVE,
ZANE AND FAMILY. -OXoxOX-

Hi Gwen,

I sent a cheque last week to help, albeit very minimally, with your vet bills. My heart breaks for Jaxson and Potter, but I know with your love and devotion he will be just fine. You and Sean are remarkable people. I just wish I lived closer so that I could visit sometime.

I am so happy that Mazda finally found her forever home.

I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and hope that you are able to have some family time to enjoy and get some R & R

Thank you all for your kind words of support for Ab – she’s just doing fantastic! What a girl she is 🙂
Thanks again and wishing everyone a happy holiday season

Jane

Keep up the awesome work – thanks for everything you are doing,

WELL ..GWEN/SEAN @ BHRR HAVE DONE IT AGAIN !!!!

IF YOU BLINK….YOU WILL MISS THE SUPER SUCCESS AT BIRCH

HAVEN !!

THIS STORY ABOUT A BLACK/BEAUTY NAMED–> MR. PARKER PAWS’ !

HE IS SPECIAL TO US …BECAUSE WE HAVE FOLLOWED HIS JOURNEY

FROM OUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD ANIMAL SERVICES’ HERE IN

EAST TORONTO……..WHERE THEIR IS ANOTHER ONE OF GWEN’S

SPECIAL HELPING ANGEL’S NAMED CHELSEA……WHO COVERED

HER WINGS’ OVER PRECIOUS/PARKER….AND FLEW HIM TO A

HAVEN EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT….IN OXFORD STN.

THIS LADY CHELSEA IS SOMEONE WE FIRST MET @ HER WORK

LOCATION….AND SHE KNEW AS MUCH ABOUT OUR TWO RESCUES’ AS

WE DID…..*BHRR’S-ZANE & *GDRI’S-RURU-(R.I.P.)…..

SHE HAS ALWAYS’ BEEN A PLEASANT INDIVIDUAL …WHETHER @

WORK OR WHEN WE BUMP INTO HER @ THE PET/STORE……..BHRR

HAS A GOOD FOOT SOLDIER IN CHELSEA…..WE NEED MORE PEOPLE

LIKE HER….JUST ASK—> *PARKER* !!!

WE ARE SO HAPPY AND PROUD OF PARKER !!! AND HIS NEW

FOREVER/HOME SHOULD BE ALWAYS’ GRATEFUL TO *BHRR AND THEIR

FIGHTING *ANGEL IN TORONTO !!!!

WELL DONE EVERYONE !!!!!

ALL DANE/DOG LOVERS’ CAN EASILY SEE HOW THE WORLD SHOULD

BE…NOT TO MENTION THE STELLAR PERFORMANCE OF *BHRR !!!!!!

SO CONTACT GWEN/SEAN TODAY…THERE IS NO TIME TO

WASTE…TAKE ACTION —> ADOPT/DONATE/FOSTER/GIVE OF

-YOUR- TIME….JUST LIKE CHELSEA…..AND THEN THE NEXT

**PARKER** WILL LOVE YOU FOR IT !!!

JUST LIKE WE DO !!!!!

LOVE ALWAYS’ –> *BHRR’S-ZANE- & GDRI’S-BJJ- OXoxOX !!!!!

P.S.—> DON’T WORRY…JUDGING BY THE PAST FEW WEEKS’ OF

PENDING ADOPTIONS’/ETC…..I AM SURE THERE WILL BE MORE

SOON !! SO I WILL BE ABLE TO SIGN THE GUEST/BOOK

REGULARLY…AND REMIND THE WORLD…UNTIL THEN….BYE !!

HEY GWEN /SEAN and Family @ BHRR……..

****CONGRATULATIONS’**** !!!!!!

I /WE- ARE SO PLEASED THAT BHRR HAS FOUND HOMES’ FOR MAZDA AND ABBI……..****EXCELLENT****WORK—>GWEN * SEAN !!!!!!!

I WANTED BOTH THOSE GIRLS’ SO BAD IT WASN’T EVEN FUNNY ?????

WITH THE SAD TIME @ BHRR -AFTER YOUR LOSSES’ OF MAGGI / KB/JB / AND OF COURSE THE BREATH/TAKING -KING- DRAGON…..I ONCE AGAIN WAS

-FINALLY-CONSIDERING CONTACTING YOU TO OFFER/ HELP OUT WITH FOSTERING -MAZDA- TO COPE WITH -HER-SADNESS……..BUT I BELIEVE SOMEONE

ELSE OFFERED-FIRST…..

****MAZDA & ABBI****

THEY TRULY WERE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GIANT/GIRLS’……….BEST WISHES TO THEM & THEIR NEW HOMES’….ALWAYS’ !!!!!!!!

THESE TWO LATEST SUCCESS STORY’S………ARE PROOF TO EVERYONE……..HOW SPECIAL YOUR WORK IS @ BHRR !!!!!

KEEP YOUR GIANT BALL OF FAITH—> ROLLING !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ALSO WE WISH THE BEST OF LUCK FOR YOUR BHRR–> AUCTION ……..THE PAINTING AND FIGURINE’S ARE WONDERFUL !!!!!!!

DO TAKE CARE GWEN…. AND SAY HELLO TO SEAN AND FAMILY……+ BIG HUGS’ FOR THE BHRR-GIANTS’ & FRIENDS’ !!!!!

THE RODGERS’ / & LOVE/KISSES’ -FROM-MR. ARTHUR ZANE-OXoxOX. + BJ JOKER-OXoxOX.

**P.S.**

GIVE THOSE TWO SPECIAL -GIRLS’- **MAZDA & ABBI** AN EXTRA -BIG- KISS FOR ME !!!!!!!!!!

BYE……………………..

Gwen and Sean,
I just wanted to thank you again for opening your home to us on Sunday.
I wasn’t sure what to expect coming into a house with so many dogs with such terrible pasts. From my experience with rescue dogs, i have always been unsure how they’re going to react to certain situations or people. I felt so safe with your dogs. It’s such a credit to the work you do with them. It’s almost as if all of their bad memories fade away! I hope I get the opportunity to visit you again sometime. I can guarantee I’ll be out at Jaclyn and Mike’s house everytime they’re lucky enough to have one of your dogs out on a date (especially Parker, but you knew that already!)
You’re both so warm and welcoming, and I had such a wonderful time. Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to see the wonderful work you do. It touched me deeply. Days later, I still can’t get your family and all that you do, selflessly, out of my head.
Sincerely,
Kara Watts (Jaclyn’s sister)

Well it is With GREAT JOY !!!…..That We Celebrate The New

Forever Homes’ of ABBI & MAZDA !!!! WELL DONE–> SEAN

& GWEN !!!! –> TRUE **PERSERVERENCE** !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is Also with Greatr Sadness Too !!! I Can’t Count How

Many Times’ I was Going to Contact Gwen….and Offer to

Adopt The Beutiful-Mazda….Who I Have Loved Right from Day

One- When BHRR saved Her….She was the Queen Fit for the

King—-> ****DRAGON****-R.I.P.- Not to Mention the

Little-Sisters’-Three- ?? Everyone chose their FAV…….

Mine was always ABBI….My Daughters’ was Mudslide …Among

Others’……ABBI had that Face that Just Talked to Me

From her Web-Site….Oh how I Hope the ForEver Homes’

Know How Lucky They Are ….That Gwen/Sean Has Blessed

Them !!! –> I Know Because -BHRR- Trusted -US- in 2006.

Although I Will Always’ -Wish that We Had These Two Giant

Queens’ to Compliment Our Two Male KINGS’ !!!!

DAM !!! I Wish We Had A BIGGER —> HOUSE ?????

Once Again—>**BRAVO**—> GWEN & SEAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-ALL- GOOD THINGS’-COME- To Those ANGEL’s That -WAIT !!!!!

Another -TWO- Success Story’s From —> ****BHRR**** !!!!!!

And All the Best to the Lucky Adopter’s ….God Bless Your

—> NEW ADDITION’s and Good Luck !!!! HMMMM…..Maybe

YOU’LL NEED A BAY/SITTER-Sometime- ??? LOL :O) !!!!

THE RODGERS’ / (BHRR)’s -ZANE- and (GDRI)’s -Black-Jack-
OXoxOX OXoxOX.

Great site, Gwen. I just wish we were a bit closer so we could offer hands-on help!

Hi Gwen,

My name is Jacquelyn Ohinski. I came across your site in search for a puppy and was very touched by your website and your work. I am a university student studying American Sign Language. My classmates and I are very dedicated to minority groups, including deaf, blind and disabled individuals. I suggested we do fundraising for your rescue as your dogs are part of a minority group. We have purchased 500 bracelets which we intend to sell.

Thank you for your time.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn Ohinski

Enjoyed the visit. I am a lover of large breeds especially Newfs. (Have had 2 in the past). Was looking for a possible companion for our Lab/chow mix breed.

Will check in from time to time!

I am a Dane lover. I want to live with a Dane again.
I am so very pleased to know that this organisation exists, the opportunity for you and your supportive team to make such a difference in the lives of one of God’s truly greatest creations.
Bless you, and I look forward to visiting you someday. I live in Ottawa.
Respectfully,

As I have been interested in the breed for so long, she told me some of the contacts she has made with rescue organizations and told me great things about you and your rescue.

Hi Gwen
I just read Jaxson’s blog and my heart is so full of happiness for him and you and Sean. His newest pictures show how truly beautiful, well shaped and muscled he is. An absolute irrefutable testament to the care, love and physical rehabilitation that he has gotten at BHRR. I can hardly wait to see him again. 🙂

Hey Gwen…I saw the new photos of Jaxson on Facebook…he looks FANTASTIC!!! I knew he was a special boy and seeing him bounce back like that just proves it that much more. I feel privileged to have been involved in helping with Jaxson’s rescue…he had me at ‘hello’…lol. Keep up the good work Gwen…YOU and your family are just as special as the animals you help!!!PAM

So happy to hear about Linus finally having found his forever home. What a wonderful addition to that home! A special dog for sure!
Barry and Trice

Hi Gwen.
Thanks’ again to you and Sean for inviting us on the boat cruise. We had a great time. Karen and I were both very happy that you raised over $3100 ! I know you had a very busy night, but we really appreciated that you and Sean took time to speak with us. If there was ever any doubt as to how genuine, dedicated and ‘true’ you both are and that what you do is for all the right reasons, speaking with you for even a few minutes certainly would put that to rest in even the most hardened person.

Wishing you all the best in your new home!!!

Barry and Trice

So happy that Abbi has found her forever home and that she can continue to grow and develop! What an awesome girl she is!!

Looking forward to meeting both of you, your work is truly altruistic.

Nikki

Wahoo…so proud of you girl…..keep it up!!

Barry and Trice

Please feel free to send her to NS for a playdate:) My landlords would love her!! And all these new places to explore!!
I’m sure Trice wouldn’t mind sharing his stuff..
Please give them all an extra hug today from us..

Barry and Trice….

Also, may I tip my hat in acknowledgment of the work being done at BHRR – well done! Warmest regards,

Jeff

Hey Gwen,

It’s Samantha here, My aunt and i have been looking at your website for the past couple of days, and we would like to help you get some donations towards your rescue. My aunt has always wanted her own rescue to help large animals, and when she saw yours, she was really interested in helping. I would like to talk to you in person more about this, to maybe set something up.

Hopefully we can work something out to help you. We both respect what you do so much, it is so nice to have people like you around. And we are willing to do whatever we can to help you! I hope to hear from you soon. You rock 🙂

Take care,
Samantha

August 18, 2009

Dearest Gwen,

Just a note to say that your family is in our prayers regarding the passing of Dragon, Maggi, and KB/JB. …but I really do understand just how unbelievably hard it is for you, your family, and your friends to deal with such a great loss in such a short time.

If it helps, the Bible pretty much lets us know that the Holy Trinity loves animals so much that He made them for mankind to tend and befriend. It was only ‘original sin’ that knocked the stuffing out of the ability of humans to extend real love and proper assistance to the animal kingdom. The Lord lets us know that there is a place for animals in His Kingdom and I hold on to that very tightly when an animal friend passes. Who else could help those so in need of unconditional love when they reach Heaven than the animals?

I sure do wish we lived closer to you in order to take part in play dates.

I neglected to mention in my previous email that I did learn a great deal of American Sign Language from neighbours of ours approximately 25 years ago in Kitchener. It was a townhouse complex and the parents were deaf but the children could hear. The adults felt ostracized until I got a book on ASL out of the library and started to learn sign language from them and to have get-togethers with many neighbours to show them how wonderful that family was and how easy it was just to even pick up the ‘deaf alphabet’. The axiom is so true that if you do not use it, you will lose it and so I do not remember any actual signs but I do remember the alphabet!

I read your ‘blog’ re: naming deaf animals and was so shocked that anyone would even consider not naming a special needs animal. I am a special needs human and I really do appreciate the name that the Lord inspired my parents to give me! What utter nonsense and ill-mannered attitudes some people can have. I can only put it down to coming from a dysfunctional family where no great love or care was given to these people as children. Moreover, for that, we must always request that the Holy Spirit/Comforter will intervene on their behalf to the Lord in order for them to begin to feel unconditional love from the Trinity and pass it on to our wonderful and special animals.

We send you our affection and ongoing encouragement. God bless you all.

Hi,I have just been made aware of your organization and your website made me so happy and so sad at the same time. Some of the pictures just broke my heart. I want to help. We are not in the position to help financially, but I would love to volunteer my time in any capacity you could use.

I have always loved great danes and we just got our first one. She is a merle and she’s 6 months old. My love for the breed continues to grow every day and I know I will be involved with Danes for the rest of my life.

Thanks,

Wow. I am so sorry for your losses.We said goodbye to our Bailey a few weeks ago, and I had been purposely ‘avoiding’ your site. It was horribly tough for me and my wife Karen. I visited your site last Friday and was devastated by the news. I am shocked at what has happened. I know no words of mine can help you, or your family, but being so touched and upset over your losses; I felt I should at least acknowledge to you how much regard and respect I have for someone whom I have never met. Your conviction, dedication and perseverance are truly remarkable.

Wishing you only good and happy memories and feelings,

Alex and Karen

Gwen,

I just finished reading your last post on Lil Linus’ page. You totally ROCK!! I have said so many of those same things to people. It’s amazing how many think that a deaf dog wouldn’t need a name. The next time I have the discussion with someone, I’ll use your analogy of not naming a deaf child. That’s a great example!

Gwen, I just want to thank you for your post on deaf dogs. I worked with deaf youth back in Newfoundland for a number of years. It was amazing to be a hearing person functioning in the deaf community – and to hear the thoughts of those around(who would think I was deaf). Most of the deaf community do not agree that they have a disability instead believe they have a different culture. These people can do anything a hearing person can do except hear – the same for deaf dogs!

THANK YOU

My heart goes out to you Gwen….
I know no words can help- just give them all an extra big hug
They are all watching over you.

Dear Gwen,

I’m so sorry to hear about all you and your family have been through… :`(

It’s so hard to keep getting back in the game when you’ve been knocked down so many times.For all the bonds you have made, and all the losses you have had, you must be extraordinarily blessed.

Take good care.
Steph xoxo

Hi there Gwennie,I am so sorry to hear about all the loss this past week, I could never imagine.
I hope you guys are doing ok.
I really am hoping to be there in Sept.
Once again all my sympathies to you and your family.

Regards,
Karen

Ohhh Gwen we are SO utterly heart wrenched at your losses at Birch Haven… nothing can ever prepare anyone for going through something like that. It’s never easy, and to lose so many precious lives in such a short time is devastating. They WILL live forever in our hearts and memories, we are all so blessed that they have touched our lives as they did. They teach us to forgive, to love with all of our hearts and greet every new day with a wagging tail.Our thoughts and hearts are focused on you and your family in these tough times.

Gwen -I’ve never emailed or met you before, but I just wanted to take a minute to send you my condolences for the loss of your three Danes in such a short amount of time. One loss is hard enough, I can’t even imagine how you are handling three. Please know that even though I am a stranger to you, I am thinking of you and your family in this difficult time.

I am a regular visitor to your website, and I often look at the available dogs you have posted. I have been having a virtual love affair with Linus! If I didn’t already have two wonderful dogs (one of which is from Graysondanes, or rather, Doswick Danes) I would be sending you my application in hopes of being considered for such a sweet dog!

Take care, Gwen.

Dawn Baker

Hi Gwen, I am very sorry to hear you have lost 3 great danes within just a week, I was speechless the day you got the call in Lombardy, I am thinking of you Sean Mason and Kinsley and all the dogs every single day, I hope all the memories you have had with the beloved dogs give you strength, I wish you the very best with the BHRR, I am amazed with all the serious attention and the work you do with the dogs, I have always wanted do the same and now I think I need to have strong characteristics, you inspire me and you surely do inspire all the other dog lovers. I would like to give a hug to all the Boer family!!
Amine

hey gwen i was just speaking to rebecca i am so sorry for your lost.
i am thinking of you at the hard time.
you are such an amaizing perosn you have such a big heart and you are always helping others, and you have so much love that you share around, i hope you know how much you do is deeply appreiciated and i wish there was more i could do for you.
thinking of you
Allie

Dear Gwen,I cannot believe the seemingly endless nightmare that you are living with the loss of dear sweet Dragon, and then having to tell Kinsley. That must have been almost worse than losing Dragon.

Dragon had a special place in my heart, and I mourn the passing of this elegant and most handsome of boys along with you and your family.

You already knew earlier this year that Dragon was starting to fail as he aged, and I believe that the loss of Maggi coupled with the passing of KB/JB so soon thereafter was just too much for Dragon to bear. I do believe that dogs feel and grieve the loss of their friends too.

You did everything humanly possible to save him. Still, it must have been oh so hard to finally have to let Dragon go after losing Maggi and KB/JB.

It has been very hard to function this week knowing that you are suffering, and I am helpless to offer you any comfort or support except through words and prayer.

I am praying so hard for you to find the strength to continue to help heal your extended family as you deal with so many heavy blows to your heart and soul.

I am happy to learn that Kona seems to be rallying, and hope the other dogs will be on the road to recovery from their grief soon as well.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you and yours.

I continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Give all my love to everyone.

Mary

Remembering back to Mar.2006 when exploring the world of Great Danes’.

There was this particular Magnificent…almost Regal-faced KING staring back @ me from his web-site.
If I wasn’t 100% sure before…I was 200% sure, when I couldn’t stop…But admire this Stellar Creature!!

I often picture this Dane whenever my conversation takes’ me to the praises’ of his home…Whenever my own Rescue is taking on a curious audience…We can’t help to mention this vivid picture in my mind…of this Giant Breed standing @ attention in the Winter Snow…just waiting to maybe harness a Sleigh like A Shiny-Horse!!
Or Towering with Sean on the living-room floor…Or Loving Eyes’- Face to Face with Gwen…etc.

Of coarse this Gentle Giant is none other than…*******DRAGON*******and he has gone to his Resting-Place….Where his Brother & Sister + New Friend are Saving his Seat/Throne & ***Brindle-Wings’*** fit for a ******KING******!!!!!!

I will miss seeing his face…look back at me from his home in Kemptville.
But a Great Dane of his Stature will always’ Cast a Huge Shadow/Presence for years’ to come……..

> God Bless-You*****DRAGON***** < and Please watch over his Family he left behind @ (BHRR)-Gwen/Sean/Mason/Kinsley and All his Friends'.oxOXoxOX. Love-The Rodgers'/(BHRR)'s -Mr. Arthur Zane/ & Black-Jack.oxOXoxOX.

Hi Gwen

I wanted to wait a few days before emailing, but wanted to pass along my sincerest condolences to you and your family for the loss of Maggi & KB.
I can’t imagine what you must be going through…….but my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Take care

Elaine

Hi Gwen and family, I just want to tell you how sad I am for you guys losing two babies in one week. I know how big a hole they leave and even tho they are with us for only a short time(it is never long enough), they loved a whole lifetime. Rest assured, you gave them the best life possible.

Yours in tears,

Vicki Morgan

Dear Gwen,Words fail me…

No words can adequately express my profound sadness or how very sorry I am at the devastating loss of your beautiful Maggi on Friday and Sean’s special KB/JB yesterday.

I wish I was there to comfort you and Sean and give you both a great big hug.

I am saddened that both Maggi and KB/JB were taken from you under such tragic circumstances, but I am sure that their final moments were peaceful surrounded by your love.

To lose one wonderful longtime companion is hard enough, but to lose two within days of each other must be overwhelming – I cannot even imagine it…

Lose yourselves in the love of the puppers who surround you still. Do not dwell too much on the way Maggi and KB/JB were taken from you, but remember how well their lives were lived under your loving care and protection.

Although thoughts of Maggi and KB/JB may cause sadness now, the time will come again when memories of two very remarkable companions, who were both survivors in their own right, will bring smiles instead of tears.
Know that I continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Mary

I am so sorry. Beyond belief.
For goodness sake, I am sending you all hugs. That is what I feel like doing to you. Maybe you can feel them across the miles

We know God is pleased to have two of his Newest Angels’ @ Rainbow Bridge……

KB/JB and Maggie are looking down on the Heaven on earth called BIRCH HAVEN****

They are singing the praises’ of Gwen & Sean from the highest Silver Clouds’… with their new Golden Wings’… and all the World should hear….and send Assistance to their Four Legged Giant friends’ @ (BHRR)!!!!!

Zane sends’ his love to Rainbow Bridge and asks KB/JB & Maggie to give their Newest friend (RuRu Northern Dancer) an extra Special Kiss for him….Thank-you.

GOD LOVE THEM and PROTECT THEM!!!

& GOD LOVE *(BHRR)* Gwen & Sean + Family oxOXox.

The Rodgers’ Family-Toronto-oxOXox.
+

July 18/09

I have followed Li’l Linus’ progress so much and I must admit to having a virtual love affair with him. I have a physical challenge as well and feel a real affinity with him and his use of ‘doggie humour’ to fit in. My husband and I knew two fawn Great Danes 35 years ago. We visited their owners but really enjoyed them so much. They were Marcus, a real great big boy with a huge dark muzzle and I must say a little ‘stunned’. That was likely because his foil, the exotic and flirtatous, Tora (yes, named after the movie). She just LOVED men in beards and would sit coquettishly on the floor in front of Marcus perched on the settee, and slowly spread her hind legs and bat her beautiful brown eyes at whatever man she took a fancy to.
What a girl! They were both wonderful and we never got over our love of Danes.

The greatest memory of them was, oddly enough, when I was deathly ill with the flu. First the Danes came onto the bed (a pull-out couch) and then the house cat and then, astonishingly, George the outdoor cat joined them. Normally, there would be fir flying. These four never crossed paths without an incident but this time they stayed with I vomited repeatedly (a very unusual thing for me as I have a cast-iron stomach) and I only knew I was getting better as one by one they each left in reverse order to when they came. It was two days of ‘hell’ except for the incredible love and companionship of those four animals. Those Danes sure knew how to mold themselves to a person’s aching body!

As we only have a fence on two sides of our property, I know we cannot be considered to be the forever family for Linus but he will always be in our thoughts.

Thank you for all the work you and your husband do to make life so much better for so many animals. My dad was a country vet turned poultry pathologist at the OVC in Guelph. He often brought animals home to die after they had been used (abused) in experiments. I truly learned compassion for these tired and desperate animals. Dad was a farm boy from Alliston and valued every animal he met and could not be trusted to be the ‘on-call’ vet for Nassagawaya Twp. because he brought home (that’s what early rescuing was called) every animal from where he visited for animal abuse calls – that included one Welsh pony (Sam) and a wall-eyed black and white pinto pony named (you guessed it), Li’l One! They were in drastic shape but Dad nursed them well and they became a ‘deadly’ duo, breaking out of every enclosure where they were confined and my parents would receive phone calls noting the location of the infamous kids and would my parents come and get them. They especially liked blending in with herds of Holstein cows. If it wasn’t such hard work rounding them up it would have been a hoot. It certainly seems so 45 years later!

It was also something to read about Potter. What a great job you do. I will certainly remain a loyal follower of your site. God bless you all.

Gwen

You are more than welcome of the donations. I was also very happy to have met you, I love what you do and you have so much knowledge and the willingness to help. Truly a gem.

Vicki

Gwen,

I must admit I often see your rescue listed on Pet Finder… but this was my first visit to your site… and the pictures of some of the wonderful dogs you’ve rescued almost broke my heart. I found myself at my desk, at work, in tears…

We have 3 wonderful rescues of our own

… my fondest dream is one day to be able to offer the kind of kindness and service you do to other dogs in need of help – so kudos to you and what you do.

Laura

And yes, let me know whenever there is any sort of auction coming up because I’d LOVE to do this again. See if you can give me a few weeks advance notice and I’ll see if I have the time to do some already done paintings or something, as well as a commissioned piece.

I think that is SO cool that you rescue danes as well as show them and support quality breeders/breeding. Before I contacted you I wasn’t sure how people would react to us having gotten from a breeder, when there are dogs needing homes in rescues (it really is a very tough desicision to choose which way to go! We spent months deliberating!) but no one has ever held anything agains us for it! Then seeing that you have dogs from puppies that you show is just wonderful and made me realize that it’s not a bad thing but a good thing – that we did all the reaseach in finding a breeder with morals and that cares about her dogs and the quality of them so much. Geoff and I figured if we got a puppy from a breeder that we would support rescues at least, do what we can – so here we are. 🙂 Geoff and I are so impressed with you and your family and what you do, we are SO glad to be able to help out where we can!

Hi Gwen

Congrats /love your site and your honesty to people that really don’t understand RESCUE

I’ve been looking through your rescue site for a few days now and would like to commend you on helping these animals in need. I’ve been involved in several dog rescue org and some need to have your type of mind set when it comes to rescue dogs.

It’s important to give the dogs time and rehabilitate them before they are faced to tackle the world in their state of confusion from their past life. They need time, love and support to regain their trust and well being. After I read your story about Shiva, I wanted to write and thank you for taking your time to help these great animals and of course for all your efforts.

I will definitely like to come to your open house and talk some more.

Hi Gwen and crew. I think that what you are doing is absolutley fantastic, and unfortunately much needed. I love the large dogs, have all my life, and I would love the opportunity to help by becoming a rescue point in my area. I understand the need, no actually I don’t understand how people can neglect, but there is a need for what you do, and if I can become a part of it, that would make my heart soar. I am also hoping to come to the microchipping fundraiser you are having on July 12th…

Thank you for being such an amazing rescue with such extraordinary people! It’s a good there are people like you to take in the less fortunate dogs.

Sometime in the future (I’m currently in highschool) I hope to be involved in rescue, particularly with Great Danes and other giant breeds. Your site is very informative and inspiring, thank you again!

I see on Tain’s show page that the Peterborough show is ‘tentative’, I hope that works out as I’d love to watch Tain strut his stuff! I’ve never been to a show before, but my family plans on attending that one.

Congrats on all you’ve done, and best wishes for the future! 🙂

Oh Gwennie…. your writeup of Parker boy almost brought me to tears! I am beyond happy that he is doing so well with you – I knew he would blossom there. I loved him so much here… he was my little velcro dog. He is so trusting and loving, it’s hard to think that anyone would want to hurt him in anyway. I can’t express my thank yous enough.

I saw an ad about donating to your Haven and I thought that I would come and take a look. Beautiful babies you have. I have been rescuing Rottys for 10 years and had a Tibetan Mastiff-so I am very interested in Large Breed puppies(I call them all puppies regardless of age). Very nice site. I live in Pembroke Ontario. I have heard of Oxford Station but I can not remember where it is. Good Luck to you.

Hey Gwen,
Just saw your posted pics of Mr. Parker, and had a good cry. I will never understand how people can be so cruel. I sent a donation for food for this gorgeous guy, so that you can start fattening him up straight away.

I check your website all the time, and am counting down the days until my wedding, so we can sumbit our application!

Thanks for all your amazing work.

Maxine, James, and Reuben (the dog!)

I am an ardent admirer and supporter of BHRR and I am just happy to do the little bit that I can. If I were closer, I would be applying to be a foster home.

Anyways, thanks again….and all the amazing work you do!

Please try not to be too frustrated by the word of those who really don’t have a clue of the worth of what you do and how and why you run BHRR as you do. These are people who don’t necessarily know the true value of a canine friend/kid and what unspeakable trauma’s, seen and unseen, these precious lives have been through.

Your rescue program is beyond compare and as one of the fortunate to have been honoured to witness the phenomena of BHRR first hand I truly feel you have nothing to justify or explain……..to anybody.
Bless you

Hello Gwen

My friend Bernadett told me about your website today. When I checked out it I couldnt believe what I saw. You are doing such an amazing thing for these dogs. I have 2 great danes which consider my children, my babies and I do everything for them. I cant even imagine letting this ever happen to a dog. It breaks my heart. Bernadett and I want to see how we can help you, if we can raise money or anything at all. We have a passion for great danes and they mean the world to us. Please let me know how we can help out. We live out in the Oshawa area.All the best and keep it up! You have a great heart.
-Kristen, Chris, Stella & Sierra.

Gwen, Thank you so much for such a lovely afternoon Saturday. I never expected to actually be fed 🙂 it was such a great atmosphere.
We all enjoyed our time at your home….thanks for opening it up like that. I am still in awe of how well it works…you are definitely doing something right, and I’m sure it’s the love that ‘all’ the dogs get.

You do wonders Gwen…and your whole family I’m sure deserves commendation!

Running a rescue has been a dream of mine for all my adult life. After seeing how well yours runs, how happy the dogs are, and how thorough you are with who can adopt etc….it’s peaked my interest even more. I am going to look into it more indepth. It was a pleasure meeting all those people …

You can sure tell they love you and respect you Gwen.

Again, please keep in touch!

I am so grateful for all the work you do for danes who are not so fortunate! Knowing there are danes in need when mine has sooo much, it wouldn’t be right for me to contribute in some way. If there was dane rescue in my area I would be involved in that, but seeing how there’s not and you guys are doing such a wonderful job, I wanted to help you with the gift of a bed! Here’s to many more wet noses and wagging tails finding solace within your ‘haven’.

Tonight and forever more my prayer will be that one day Rescues such as yours will no longer be necessary.

The stories and poems you have shared have made me both laugh out loud and sob in despair.

Simply put.. I know you don’t do what you do for us.. you do it for them. I just want to offer my most sincere thank you!

Glenda

Dear Gwen and everybody at BHRR,

We wanted to thank you for rescuing Oceané. We are delighted to follow her progress and to see the wonderful pictures of her on your website.

As you know, shelters like ours welcome several thousand animals per year, and despite our efforts, it is not possible to find homes for all of them. Wehn people like you accept to take care and rehabilitate an animal with special needs, it gives our entire team a feeling of happiness.

Oceané couldn’t have been luckier, and we are very happy that we could collaborate with you to offer her a new life.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Manon Duval & the the entire Eastern Townships SPA Team.

Your blog about Mazda makes me very sad. To think of such a loving creature having such a difficult time finding a forever home, breaks my heart. My daughter has been asking me for a dog for many years, but I wanted to be sure we could give it the proper love, attention and time he/she deserved before I told her yes. That time has arrived and we’re looking to adopt a large breed. The more I read about Mazda, the more I thought my daughter and I could provide her with the home that she needs, but then I read your requirements and, unfortunately, we would not be accepted. Although I am originally from Ontario, I now live in Cheektowaga, NY …my daughter is 9, and although I’m 35, I’m a graduate student. It seems we violoate MANY of your requirements 🙁 When I was young,my Mom bred Irish Wolfhounds and among them was a female, brindle Dane named Talon. She was the runt of her litter and beside all of the Wolfhounds she really looked quite small. Her size had nothing on her character though, she was precious. I wish Mazda all the best and hope for her forever home to present itself soon. I often miss living in Canada, and Mazda’s story has definitely made me wish I was living there still. Maybe then we could be her forever home. I will continue to read your blog about her, with fingers crossed.
Best of Luck,
Stephanie Newman

Happy St. Pat’s & Happy Easter…Just wanted everyone to know how BHRR-Gwen and Sean blessed our lives’!!!Almost three years’ ago,they trusted us, as a forever home,…Good Friday 2006…A delightful handfull named Mr. Arthur Zane from Zanesville,Ohio came into our lives’ with open arms.He is so special to us…since he was born(Aug.16th.2004) on top of my Fathers’ death(Aug.19th.2004.), who happened to be the 2nd. Arthur in my family…Zane is the 5th.We wanted Zane, true enough,and wanted more BHRR Giants’ before that visit was over…beautiful Boba Phett particularly…Now @ Rainbow Bridge.It is true what they say…Great Danes’ are for life!!I can’t see myself ever without one??I would like All Great Dane Lovers’…To celebrate the Huge Success @ BHRR…Zane is living Proof!!!Before we forget…WAY TO GO…DYCE!!! & BRONSON!!!CHAMPIONS’!!!HARLEQUINS’ & BLUES’…ZANES’partial to them. On a sad note…Please give KB/JB a BIG KISSxoXOxoHUGS’….We are thinking of SEAN TOO… There is no reason to wait???Dog Lovers’ out There???Please help a BHRR Dane find their New home…or help BHRR with their Loving Care…You won’t regret it!!!God will love you…Just like he LOVES’ BHRR…….My Regards’ & Best Wishes Forever…LOVExoXOxo Mr. Arthur Zane + RuRu Northern Dancer(GDRI)…& The Rodgers’ Clan Toronto,Ontario-CANADA.

I just stumbled across your webpage.
I had a dane of my own when I was younger, she was also a rescue. When she came to us she was three years old, and had old battle wounds up and down her front legs. Right away we bonded and she knew I was her human and that she was my dog. She was black and white, with a perfect black spot right on the top of her head. She lived to the ripe age of eleven, and spent most of her days roaming around the old farm (amongst the calves she looked very similar!) and taking rides with us in the farm truck.
I could never have asked for a better more sweet and kind dog. Someday I would love to adopt a dane again, there is something about the breed that is just awesome.
I will keep your organization in mind, it looks like you are doing a wonderful job and have such beautiful dogs!

Hi Gwen,

We are relatively new to the wonderful world of Great Dane ownership and only discovered your exceptional website a few months ago. We were previously involved in dalmatian rescue and had, as our own, a rescued dal and a rescued beagle up until a year ago when we added our first Great Dane to the family. She’s a beautiful brindle from a show line, but since we always sterilize our dogs, she is headed for obedience trials and agility. We love all dogs, but Miika, the Great Dane, has been an unparalleled gift of friendship and delight which seems to be representative of this particular breed. But they are very big dogs – our girl is just 15 months old, over 37.5 inches at the withers, and can throw spittle across the room with the flick of the head – and many people are not aware of their requirements when they get these dogs and unfortunately the dogs suffer. Your work, Gwen, is tremendous. We read your website postings daily and feel so fortunate that Gwen Boers is who she is so that mistreated, neglected, and abused Great Danes get the love, care and healing that they deserve. God bless you and your furry four-footed angels!

Gwen: you are amazing . I am so impressed and have shed a few tears.
I just rescue Danes but we always need someone like you for
the special ones…..

Thank you…Elaine

Bless you. You and your family are angles to these magnificent beasts! I truly hope there comes a day when you no longer need to do what you do.

Cool site, very informative.

Hi there; thought I would write a few lines to say thanks for all that you do for these animals. I am a mother of 3 Great Danes and could not imagine my life without them. Its people like you that we need more of, no animal should have to suffer! Once again, thank you.

Linda, Ace, Destinee & Chelese…

Dear Sean & Gwen,

I’m so, SO sorry to hear about KB/JB and his diagnosis of osteosarcoma. How very sad, and tragic. My warmest thoughts are with you as you spend time with KB/JB and celebrate his life & his spirit.

I wish these noble creatures lived longer, and didn’t get such horrible diseases. 🙁

You are all in my thoughts. {{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}

Deanna

Thank god for BHRR and other Recuses like you.

Hi, I am a Vet Assistant student at St. Lawrence College, Kingston. I want to start by telling I love your organization, I think that you have great heart and devotion to large breed dogs! I was so moved by some of the photo of Great Danes that were so miss treated. I am also writing to ask if your organization would be interested at speaking on my school. For our communications class we are putting on a speaker day April 7th, 2009 and I think you would be a great addition to different speakers that day. If you get let me know that would be greatly appreciated. Thank- You Tiffany Belbeck

Have really enjoyed visiting your site
I own and operate a grooming shop in P.E.C. Parker’s
Barkers and have a line of all natural canine care products
(parkerspetcare.ca)
I am home always as I have 9 dogs of my own (all house pets)
Have a rescued grey merle dane Amelia and two one year olds
Parker and Faith (black and fawn)
Have done much rescue work on my own with giant breeds
Newfs, Danes and wolfhounds app. 20 years worth
Would love to offer my services to foster if there is a need in this area
Feel free to contact me 613 399 1170 if I can help
Have had experience with deaf danes in the past and own a deaf rescue bullie presently
Keep up the great work
Yours truly,
Kim Parker

Hi Gwen,
Wanted to let you know I have sent a Donation for Dana by paypal. I can’t stop thinking about her and she has such a gorgeous face! I know she is in the best place for her rehab and I will be watching for updates on her progress.

I feel so blessed to have found your rescue! Our family LOVES our dogs and we are always on the look out for beautiful kiddos who can grow up with our kids. Recently, we were able to bring Lucky George home from a breeder in Nebraska. She wanted to make sure that her little guy had a wonderful place to grow and live in. Lucky is a deaf dane with possible sight issues (pupils are misshapen) and just the LOVLIEST little guy.

Jill wasn’t trying to breed white danes at all. She didn’t know that her Merle female and Harlequin male both carried the gene to make deaf whites. We are very happy that she picked us to be Lucky’s family! He’ll be 4 months on Feb 1 and just enjoys lounging in bed, on the couch, and running with the kids. He has a similar gray spot on his back haunch like Linus:)

Our family is Maggie (9 1/2 year old black dane), Hoover (9 1/2 year old black lab/retriever mix, and Lucky George (3 1/2 month deaf dane) plus our cats Magic (12 years), Reggie (7 years), and Sterling (7 years). Then our humans (LOL) are myself, Jason, and kids Sidne(14), Rian(6), Harrisen(4), and Ari(2).

We will continue to check back often to see how Linus is doing and any additional deaf danes that make their way home to your wonderful rescue!

Marie and enjoyed very much attending your open house last weekend and being ‘swarmed’ by your brood. We felt at first like aliens as we were being inspected by wet noses and big eyes, what an adventure for both of us just to see all those happy dogs. I was struck by how well they all seemed to get along, I never heard an angry snarl. We really appreciated the opportunity to see first hand your valuable operation.