Red Oak Rescue

Not a big poster on my rescue but wanted to share this info about my recent rescue. I certainly don't do 1/10th what others I know (Gwen, Jen, just to name a couple) do to give life and happiness to dogs but I do care and try to do what I can when I can and where I can. The photos of this dog whom I named Fannie (I do pick the weirdest names) says so much about rescues. Fannie was found by me (or rather Fannie found me) on Dec 27th. I pulled into a parking lot/boat launch ramp to meet my friend to walk. There was Fannie, so sad standing as if she was waiting for someone to help her. Skinny, droopy ears, eyes all infected, just pitiful, an older dog obviously. Her tail wagged a little when I approached but she did not run, growl or act scared - just sad. Well, seconds later, she was in my car in a crate. She apparently had been seen around the area for over a week up a country road. Who can imagine her history: lost, dumped? Vet visits later: Age range 8-10 years, clearly a senior; eye infection, worms, under nourished, and HW+, lungs/chest xrays showed shadow (fluid??), then a fever and infection. Advertised for owner with no result. It is now 1-1/2 months later and $$$ vet bills (no surprises there), Fannie's eyes are clear, temp is much better, started treatment with doxy for HW, her appetite is much improved, she loves short walks, rolling in the grass, did I mention she was housebroken and spayed (so yea she was someone's pet). She shows her appreciation for a warm house, soft bed, daily treats and hugs. Her future not certain until we finish all the antibiotics and can assess the HW situation but for sure Fannie is loved and in return she gives love back in spades. So, thanks to all of you out there who are dedicated to helping the lost ones that find their way to you. I am glad to be a small part of it.

In reviewing Year 2018, I have the following thoughts and things to share. Before I moved to Alabama, I had done dog rescue but it was finding a dog who usually had a collar and reuniting that dog with its owner. I felt fulfilled. After moving to Alabama, I again had opportunities to rescue dogs (and Cats). However, it became quickly apparent this was a whole new ballgame. If these dogs (or some of them) were lost, their owners certainly did nothing to try to find them and mostly they were throw aways. I can say that there were a couple of times I was able to reunite, one in particular was beagles and their owner had burned up several tanks of gas searching for them before I found them (and yes, they had collars and ID). Many of my rescues were HW+ (just rescued one this week, a senior dog who tested +) and even potential adopters sometimes tell me they do not believe in giving a dog medication (well, that takes them off the list very fast and the ones that way they do are verified!). I have met so many dedicated dog rescuers who spend $$$ and time to bring these dogs back to health and give them a chance at a new, better life or even give them a loving home for the short time they may have left. I am proud to be a small part of that "adventure" and pleased to have relations with others like me who care for neglected furbabies. Then, I so enjoy being part of a group of transporters who move these dogs to states where adopters await them. I try not to dwell on the negatives of attitudes towards animals and focus on what we have in common - the love of these creatures. If you ever wish you could do something but cannot take in rescues or have the money to pay the vet bills, consider becoming a transporter. A few hours out of a day makes all the difference and the joy of being a volunteer driver is so worthwhile. So, Happy New Year from Me to You.

Today, Saturday, just taking a short breather...walking my puppies on leashes so relaxing. Amazing at 11 soon to be 12 weeks how great these two act. Murphy walks right beside me always checking to see where I am; Milly more casual, oh, Mommy, can we stop so I can chew grass or play with that leaf, please? Forget the dishes, the vacuum, just chilling with my babies.