Pack Fit

01/10/2025

I wish I had video of the first day we started doing pack walks with Ava. She was spinning on leash, vocalizing, and - basically- flipping her sh*t. This was just 4 days ago.

We don't know her backstory, but it's evident she wasn't properly socialized. When I say that word (socialized), this doesn't mean : "Ava never learned how to play with other dogs." For some reason, this is what comes to mind for most folks when it comes to dogs and socialization.

Socialization is exposure. That's it. It's safe, consistent exposure. Through this exposure, dogs are developing associations, familiarity, filters and perceptions, as well as building their senses and important skills like navigating new environments, solving problems, and communication skills.

"Play" is a type of conversation. "Playfulness" is a characteristic.
Play is a *subset* of socialization, not the majority.

Note to humans everywhere: a dog's level of sociability should never be judged by how "playful" they are. I've met MANY playful dogs with zero social skills. Playful dogs who are rude, pushy, disrespectful, and overwhelming. Playful dogs who also dictate and dominate the play conversation, and where there's no "give and take"--- where it's all very one-sided.

A dog's level of social skill should be judged by their ability to share space respectfully and navigate various environments without issue. Many don't receive this (like Ava here), so it becomes an effort (which is okay).

Case in point: take one of Ava's puppies, Cowboy. Sweet little Cowboy. He's more of an observer. A watcher. He'll engage and participate in a few playful banters here and there with his siblings, but he's a chill little pup who'd rather sit back, take things in, watch and observe. He's still practicing social behavior by sharing space with everyone, but he's more of a wallflower. And that's okay!! We humans tend to measure and judge a dog based on their ability to "play with other dogs." We expect and force "being playful" on them... which chips away at relationship, diminishes trust, and puts countless dogs in uncomfortable and risky situations.

At any rate, we have a strategic process and approach for "blending" and socialization. Structured walks play a big role in this.

These clips are from days 2, 3, and 4 (3rd video in Comments). We’ve been doing 2 pack walks every day since with space/distance, clear communication, and will continue to do so. Building trust and familiarity should never be rushed or forced. Too many do, which only ends up creating unsavory and risky circumstances.

Time. Patience. Space. Guidance. Consistency. Structure. Communication. Remaining open to (the dogs’) feedback. And- again- patience. Winning combo 🙂

So proud of Ava (....and Steve ; P)!

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Want to learn more?

Schedule a private IBAC (www.packfit.net) or check out our masterclasses and digital courses (https://packfit.thinkific.com).

50% of all proceeds go directly to the care of our foster dog, Ava, and her babies.

01/08/2025

Caution: it’s about to get gushy.

You all are simply amazing.

We can’t thank you enough for coming through for this family....and for us. We didn't have the space or the financial means to take this little family in.... but we made the space and - together - created the financial means. We truly wouldn’t have been able to do ANY of this without you all... so we deeply, sincerely thank you.

We'd especially like to thank Smallbatch pets for their generous food donation for Ava (Mama Dog)!! We’d tagged and sent emails to Smallbatch, Answers Pet Food, and Green Juju… all whom we’ve used, supported, and recommended to countless clients, friends, etc. over the years—-and Smallbatch was the only company to respond. While I don’t ever expect anything, I was floored by their immediate response and generosity. To me, this speaks ***volumes***, and they'll have my full support for as long as they exist.

Ava and all the pups have their first vet appt with Temecula Creek Small Animal next Friday and all will have a thorough check up. Some labs. Dewormer. Etc. Ava will need to be spayed after the babies are weaned, and we were quoted $780 for that. While there are "low cost spay and neuter" programs, many can be botched operations--- and I really don't want to run any risks. I'm hoping to be able to provide her with the best care as possible. All of them.

We’re over half the way to the end goal with the GoFundMe (link in the comments), and - again - we're so very, very grateful. The level of care and what we've been able to provide from the washable and reusable p*e pads to the toys and blankets to the vet care to the food to the laundry detergent (we wash the p*e pads and blankets daily) to the whelping box to the playpen to Ava's beautiful new leash and collar .... all of it. We could not have done without ***you all***. This is all YOU!!

Andi Chesser
Deborah Hudgens
Royce Cohen
Angela Robertson
Michelle Witteried
Lisa Coombs
Mei Ju
Linda Watry
Amy Rush
Pamela Pao
Sherry Stroh
Sara Malstrom
Cheryl Moss
Weather Puppy App
Tamara Smith
Megan Poole
Shana Roach
Stephanie Alvidres
Linda Pavlik
Valorie Livesay
Jovita O'Donnell
Barry Martin
Becky Casey
Michele Hedrick
Jodi Lawson
Denice McNulty
Michelle King
Jillian Ann
... I sincerely hope I haven't left anyone out.

We're so very thankful for each and every one of you. Thank you.

We're also now tallying interest and answering questions about Ava and the babies from potential families.

Although everyone will be ready to meet their new human life companions (has a ring to it, doesn't it?) ... I don’t know how long everyone will be with us. The tough thing about “rescue.” Fostering is a "for-now-until-?" ordeal. And my plan isn't just "finding them a home"…but **finding them the RIGHT home.** This is my commitment to them-- and they’ll have it for the rest of their lives.

Training and education will be included with each pup/ dog (which translates into thousands of dollars), and it’ll be in our contract that – should anything prevent the pup from staying with their families - they be returned back to us. I'm going to do everything in my power to make sure none of these beautiful beings will ever be dumped, abandoned, left behind at a shelter, living on a chain in the yard, neglected, bounced around, misunderstood, struggling with behavioral question marks, etc. Again, this is my commitment to them and I'm honoring it "as long as we both shall live." : )

Ava eats a *lot* of food. She eats more than 3x the amount of our other dogs because she's nursing, so food is something we'll continue to be in need of. Especially when the puppies start weaning (which, I suspect, will be in another few weeks).

"Jay" at the Natural Pet Food Store in Murrieta (CA) is where we get our food from. He's been taking food and treat donations for Ava at : (951) 461-0001.

Again, thank you all for helping us help them. This is truly a group effort, as is any rescue effort; and the level of kindness, compassion, generosity, and support has been so heartwarming.

Now, to find these precious little souls *their special humans*

01/08/2025

the foster chronicles…..

bugsy (who we’re renaming “rocco”) gets yelled at by mom. *a lot.* he’s *the only* puppy she’s had to discipline and stay on. he’s super assertive. pushy. self confident. and head strong (steve loves him - lol). at first, we weren’t sure if she was disciplining him or something else. sometimes, discipline can be hard to watch (or listen to). but it’s a valuable and necessary part of anyone’s learning curve (human or other animal species). i’ve written about this topic several times before, but it always bears repeating. neither discipline or punishment is the same as abuse. we’ve got to stop lumping those together. the fact there is such a lack of this is one of our biggest issues (for both ends of the leash). there’s a yin and yang to discipline. there’s learning through gain and consequence. pleasure and discomfort. yes and no. emotional health also plays a huge role in this, especially when it comes to the parent or teacher. ava is balanced and healthy physically, mentally, emotionally, and energetically. she’s clear. direct. consistent. and follows through. she doesn’t end or leave the lesson until the point has been made, received, and her kid complies. her “lessons” are getting more spread out now, but he still pushes the boundaries from time to time ;)

01/08/2025

Thrilled to announce that we just received our first bulk order of "Pieces in Heaven" books, ready for personalizing and signing for you or someone you love 📚✨

This beautifully illustrated, heartwarming story is perfect for anyone mourning the loss of a beloved animal companion. It’s a tale of peace, hope, and comfort that'll soothe any aching, grieving heart. 💔❤️

What makes this even more special? 50% of all proceeds go directly to support our foster dog, Mama "Ava," and her 5 sweet babies. 🐶

Looking for the perfect gift or a little comfort for yourself?

Order your copy here: https://www.packfit.net/books-and-ebooks

01/07/2025

I can't get over how fast these little babies are growing!

For those of you who don't know or don't recall, we learned about a Mama dog who'd given birth to some babies under a heavy metal trash can at an organic waste management facility. She'd given birth to 9 puppies. 3 were already deceased by the time they were found, 1 passed away less than a handful of days later, leaving 5 babies. After we tried to secure a safe spot to land and reaching out to countless rescues (who were all full), there was only one thing left to do.
...and here we are.

Although we didn't have the financial means or the space to welcome this family in (we already have 4 dogs), we created the means and space.... thanks to the kindness, support, and generosity of the community.

Here we are some weeks later. Mama (now "Ava") and babies are all doing so very well, and will be ready for their forever homes in about 4 more weeks. The time will go by quickly!

We have a vet visit scheduled for everyone next Friday. Ava (Mama) and all babies will have a full check up, testing, and puppies will be put on dewormer.

For physical and behavioral health purposes, we'll be doing things "the PackFit Way"; which means we'll be...

- following Dr. Jean Dodds' vaccination protocol (so none of the puppies will receive their first essential vaccinations until 9 weeks of age; link in Comments section to view this yourself),

- starting them on a clean, real, biologically appropriate diet when they've been weaning to support immune health and development, and

- will not be neutering or spaying the puppies, but will have it in their agreements and contracts that this be done when their reproductive systems have fully and completely developed.

We'll be closely working with all adopters in getting everyone set up and appropriately squared away with the information and guidance they need (health and nutritional, puppy training | equipping | and raising, teenage training and equipping, behavioral conditioning and prevention, etc), so training and education will come with the pup.

I understand our approach to rescue and adoption is quite unorthodox, but this is my personal commitment to these dogs -- and the wonderful people who'll soon get to enjoy them as beloved companions.

We'll also have it in our contract that the pup be returned to us should there be any reason they cannot stay with their families and in their homes. Our screening process will be thorough, as it's more important to me they find *good*, committed, invested, loving, responsible homes rather than ... just a home.

We're about halfway to our GoFundMe goal and will soon be in need of more food, so if anyone can help - please do.

We didn't take this family in because we could afford to and had the space... we took them in because we had to. Rescues are full and shelters are maxed.

Ava (Mama) is a survivor. She's smart as a whip. Loves and craves human connection. Really enjoys learning new things and just hanging with her human(s). I don't know what her backstory is, but it's evident she hasn't had any socialization or exposure, so she's getting small doses of this every day. She's getting to know the sights, sounds, and goings-on of living in an urban neighborhood; and we also started including her on our pack walks with our other dogs - working through the different levels of space (muy importante). Every day we're seeing micro-improvements and dots connecting : )

Cowboy (the smallest little guy) came to us with a ton of question marks and we weren't sure if he was even going to make it. He'd been separated by the finder from the family and bottle-fed. The story was he was rejected by Ava (Mama)... but she took him right in and allowed him to nurse as soon as he got to us; so I'm not 100% sure why or what happened there. BUT. Now, he's growing, thriving, and it's been absolutely heartwarming to be a part of.

Watching everyone's little personalities start to come through has been such a beautiful thing to witness. They're each so different and special in their own unique little ways.

It's been such an honor and privilege to help this little family, and we couldn't have been able to provide what we've been able to provide without **you** all. So, I deeply and sincerely thank you. Thank you for giving us the ability to do this for them. The act of rescue is, very much, a group effort-- as well as an ongoing effort. Rescue doesn't end when a dog is off the streets or out of a shelter. That's just the beginning.

At any rate, care and support is still, and will continue to be, needed as long as this little family is with us.

Please help with funding for vet care if you can...

GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/5d51019e

And here's the phone number to help with food (Ava eats 3x the amount of our other dogs since she's nursing):

The Natural Pet Food Store at (951) 461-0001

- Small Batch Pet Food Frozen Patties (duck, rabbit, chicken, beef),

- Green Juju frozen blends (any),

- Green Juju and Small Batch dehydrated training treats,

and

- dehydrated CodSkin sticks (they have these in wooden buckets on the side of the register, if they ask; the medium sticks are about $1.49 each; she loves these and - believe it or not- we've been including them in some of the conditioning work we've been doing).

I'm also donating 50% of all proceeds from my books, 1:1 work, digital courses and masterclasses, mentorship program, Shop sales, etc. - so the proceeds from each purchase is definitely going to a great and worthy cause.

Again, thank you all- and don't forget we have a private FB group page set up for all donors. This includes more pics, videos, and you can get to know everyone a bit better. Link in the Comments section below.

www.packfit.net

01/03/2025

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Grab your copy today and let it be a light on your journey. 💕👉

Links are in the comments!

01/03/2025

"Little Todd Finds His Forever Home"...

A *true* underdog story of courage, resilience, hope, and kindness....

1st book of the "Forever Home" series.

https://a.co/d/1CvaOTa

01/01/2025

The gray merle is the only female.

This other little boy- I believe - may be blind or partially blind, given what I’m seeing (?). Will soon see.

They’re getting so mobile 🐾

01/01/2025

01/01/2025

Well, here we are 2025. Happy New Year, everyone. Thanks to you all, we've been able to support, feed, and bring this beautiful Mama Dog ("Ava") and her babies to warmth, comfort, and safety.

"Rescue" isn't an event... it's not pulling a dog in off the street, pulling from a kill shelter, or removing from a bad situation. Rescue is a **daily effort.** And a group and community effort at that.. and we absolutely couldn't have done this without you all. Times are tough for us all right now, so do know how grateful we are you chose to donate to this family, this cause, and their care.

We were fortunate to have had 4 bags of SmallBatch frozen raw food donated, thanks to Royce Cohen (Royce Flowers in NOVA) and Jen Larson (Founder of Golden Years Sanctuary - a senior cats rescue and sanctuary in SC).

I'm doing my best to try and keep needs separate so dollars can be mindfully distributed and purposed.

Ava eats 3x the amount our other dogs because she's nursing, so we're going through food quickly.

Any dollars that come in will go directly towards vet care, and we're asking any food donations to go directly through the Natural Pet Food Store (phone number below).

Given the pricing I received from the Temecula Creek Vet (Dr. Davis is the vet we see | https://www.temeculacreekvet.com), I've had to increase the GoFundMe goal:

House Call fee: $90 per visit
Examination: $85 (for Ava)
Litter exams are $35 per puppy 8 wks and under ($175 for litter)
Distemper/Parvo vaccines $42 per puppy (we'll be following Dr. Jean Dodds' vaccination protocol, so will hold off on this until 9 weeks of age)
F***l testing keyscreen $70 per dog
Bloodwork: $150 and up (for Ava)
Deworming: $24 and up per puppy (based on weight)
Spay for Ava : $130 house call fee for spay | $650 for spay (incl. at-home pain medication for Ava)

All in all, vet care will come out to around $1820, and this is without the vaccinations. The first $785 or so covered the preparatory Petco trip and initial bags of food, so all funding is strictly being directed to vet care now (I'm still waiting to hear from another vet down the street to see what their pricing is like).

Again, and if you can and are able, we will continue to need food for Ava- and ask all food donations go directly through the pet food and supply store (we've spoken to them- "Jay" is the fella' we've mostly spoken with. SmallBatch frozen raw and Answers Pet Food is the food she eats). The pet store's phone number is : (951) 461-0001

We're good on laundry detergent, washable p*e pads, and other supplies now (huge thanks to Andi Chesser and Deborah Hudgens).

The babies are getting much more mobile... their eyes are open, and in another week or so their ears will open! Such a beautiful thing to witness.

The little black pup with the skunk stripe on his head has *such* a funny personality... he's always awake when the others are asleep. Looking around... taking everything in. Wants to be a part of everything going on around him--keeping close tabs on Mama (and me). He's also found his voice, which has been adorable to listen to. I've named him "Bugsy" : P

What a little miracle this has been ... and you all have played a huge part in making it so. Again, I bow in reverence and deep gratitude. We honestly couldn't do this without your help and support.

Hoping 2025 is a year of new beginnings, beautiful transitions, deep Love and absolute Joy.

We'll soon start focusing efforts on finding loving, lifelong, committed homes for this precious little family... it's my hope they're out there. Everyone in this little family is so very precious, and any human would be lucky to have them. They deserve nothing but the best.

Little Todd Finds His Forever Home

12/31/2024

Ava (Mama Dog) eats 3x as much as our other dogs do and we really, really need help with food.

If you can, please help out with a bag of **Small Batch frozen raw food**-- -this is what she's been eating and thriving on.

We just finished the last bag of food and are headed down now.

Here is the phone number to the pet food store... please, please donate a bag if you can. We really need the help.

​Natural Pet Food Store: (951) 461-0001 (please tell them this is for Kimberly Artley--- they know we just brought this little family in from the organic waste management facility).

Thank you....

12/30/2024

Another day, another load of laundry.

These babies are changing so quickly right before our eyes- it's really amazing to witness.

If you can help with food, (more) washable | reusable p*e pads, (more) blankets (they're half off right now), and vet care, we really need the help. Mama and babies also really need to be seen by a vet, and the babies need to be put on dewormer.

I'll be putting together a little portfolio with the different puppies | names, etc soon.

Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1LTPNJNCPUG9J?ref_=wl_share

The Natural Pet Food Store we purchase our food (Mama is currently eating Small Batch Pets - every protein and we have one bag left):
​Phone: (951) 461-0001

GoFundMe (all funding has been purposed and used already- the funding we need now is for food and vet care):
https://gofund.me/5d51019e

Vet cost breakdown in Comments section.

We have around 3.5K followers. If everyone contributed just $1, we'd have everything squared away.

My sincere thanks to all who've contributed so far. "Rescue" truly is a community and group effort!

With Love,

K.

12/29/2024

….current situation 🤎

It’s been such an incredible experience watching Mama dog with her babies.

Speaking of Mama Dog….she needs a name. In fact- most of them do.

For Mama- I like “Ava”, and the kids like “Sophie.”

What say you?