Sponsored by:

Brad and Kathy Pedersen in honor of Paul and Nicole Hahn's wedding

 In honor of sweet foster girl Ellie from Virginia P.

  In memory of Montana, Zoe and Barney

  Merry Christmas to the senior goldens from Santa 

8/23/2013:

Ellie is a 10-12 year old golden retriever mix found in a road ditch about two months ago.  The good Samaritan has cared for her, while looking for the owner.  She was found with a pink collar but no tag and no microchip.

Ellie arrived on Friday, August 9th and was seen by a vet on Saturday.

Ellie weighed in at 46 lb.  Negative for heartworm and stool exam, but needed all the core vaccinations and a microchip.  Her eye was concerning with swollen, watery drainage since the GS took her in.  Her eye was flushed and eye antibiotic ointment for home with recheck on August 22nd.  Her eye started looking less inflamed in two days.  Dental check showed front teeth in good condition, however, molars needing cleaning and/or extraction.  Arthritis in the hips.  Ellie started on fish oil supplements and Cosequin, but anti-inflammatory medication could be needed for better movement.

Ellie is 100% housebroken, but doesn't have a signal except mild pacing in the house. I take her out on a flat collar and leash.

She hasn't barked since she has arrived, not even to join the chorus when mailman drives past or the doorbell rings.

She was thin, but I found dry kibble was too difficult to manage initially.  Started on moist food and graduated to moistened dry kibble.  No guarding of her food and will gently take a treat from hand.  She seems to have more strength in her hindquarters already.

Ellie is free roam. I arrived home once to find Ellie on the sofa.  She feels comfortable and at home here.  My dogs can sit on the sofa, if they wish. 

Ellie has taken short walks with flat collar and tolerating increasing distances, but never will be a jogger or high activity girl.

Ellie is amiable with both male and female dogs and cats.  Also enjoyed hugs from children six and ten years old.

From my current observations, Ellie would be a wonderful companion for less active person or couple.  She is loving and no trouble at all. She does seem to enjoy walks. A fence would not be needed, but it would be handy and she does not seem to be a digger.  She would not be strong enough for a rambunctious puppy or very young children. A very sweet dog!