Red 05-182

back to Adopted Dogs

Profile

It was mid-June when RAGOM received a call on the Hotline from Joan. She was hoping to find a good home for Red, a handsome Golden Retriever who had wandered onto the family farm last fall.

Joan had put food out in the apple orchard because Red was too afraid to come close to the house. She fed him through the entire winter, and by spring he was coming closer. Approximately six weeks before Joan called RAGOM, Red finally gathered up enough courage to enter the house. He even allowed Joan to bathe him and loved being brushed. He was great with her two dogs - very, very sweet but also very timid. If anyone came to visit, Red would hide until they were gone. He acted like a puppy mill dog.

Red was now living in the house day and night. Joan had grown to love Red, but just didn't have time for three dogs and she felt he needed a family of his own. She knew he would one day make someone a fantastic companion. Joan has called all the vets and shelters in the area and distributed flyers, and after 8 months, still no one has reported him missing.

Red

At a Glance #05-182

Breed not specified Born: September 2005
Male Weight not specified

Status: Adopted

Profile

It was mid-June when RAGOM received a call on the Hotline from Joan. She was hoping to find a good home for Red, a handsome Golden Retriever who had wandered onto the family farm last fall.

Joan had put food out in the apple orchard because Red was too afraid to come close to the house. She fed him through the entire winter, and by spring he was coming closer. Approximately six weeks before Joan called RAGOM, Red finally gathered up enough courage to enter the house. He even allowed Joan to bathe him and loved being brushed. He was great with her two dogs - very, very sweet but also very timid. If anyone came to visit, Red would hide until they were gone. He acted like a puppy mill dog.

Red was now living in the house day and night. Joan had grown to love Red, but just didn't have time for three dogs and she felt he needed a family of his own. She knew he would one day make someone a fantastic companion. Joan has called all the vets and shelters in the area and distributed flyers, and after 8 months, still no one has reported him missing.

Red

Updates

Sunday, July 23, 2006

I believe that we are the sum of all of our experiences, whether those experiences are good or bad. Some of those experiences allow us to grow, while some stunt our growth. I believe we grow each time we commit a kindness, however small. Each hurt we cause, or each time we neglect to attempt to stop someone else from causing a hurt diminishes us. Red continues to grow.

For three weeks Red, along with his brother and sister hosted Charlie Bear while Charlie’s family was on vacation out of the country. Red is a most gracious host. After Charlie was with us for a few days it became increasingly clear that Charlie was not feeling very well. I took Charlie to the vet and we began what felt to me like a desperate race against the calendar. Charlie was fighting a battle with cancer and a massive infection. We were trying to slow his decline to allow his family to see him again. At no point during his ordeal did Charlie waver in his sweet and loving outlook. I was in email contact with Charlie's family. They were checking email from Internet cafés throughout Europe. How horrible it would be to save for your dream vacation to Europe for two years only to receive an email 1/3 of the way into your trip that your beloved dog is now struggling for his life.

Red was right beside Charlie throughout his stay with us. Red slept next to Charlie and checked on him continuously. Red periodically brought toys to share with Charlie. Of my three dogs, Red has always been the most empathetic. Both Sky and Molly, each in their way, I think of as being somewhat "me-centric." Sky is firmly convinced the world and every person and toy in it belongs to, and revolves around him. While Red collected toys and bones and brought them to Charley, Sky preferred to steal the tennis balls and anything else that struck his fancy so that Red would have to search out and return those toys repeatedly to Charlie. Charlie helped Red to focus outside of himself.

I believe that Charlie wanted to be able to say goodbye to his family. I also believe that Red was supporting and encouraging Charlie in every way he could. Each time I returned from a vet's office with Charlie, Red would check him over and welcome him back. I believe that Red's support helped Charlie to hold on until his family returned. They were able to lavish love and affection on Charlie for 36 hours before they had to help him to the Rainbow Bridge yesterday. Charlie lives on in our hearts and in our memories.

Charlie Bear -- We miss you!Red, beautiful as always

Monday, May 29, 2006

The other day one of my gates was inadvertently left open. Now, considering I know dogs and I am extremely protective of dogs, one might assume that I had automatically checked that gate. I did check one gate, just not both gates. So, I let Red and Molly outside, as Sky, dragging his “mom anchor” on the other end of his leash, followed more slowly. Red, as is normal for him, immediately ran from the top of one side of the yard, down the hill around the house and up the hill on the other side of the yard. There Red discovered the gate standing wide open.

By the time Sky and I arrived at the other side of the house and were starting up the hill, we were met by Red coming back down the hill – on the other side of the fence. I am fully aware that not everyone would go into complete cardiac arrest just because they see a dog on the other side of a fence. But, those are people who have not spent more than three weeks physically ill and not able to sleep at all because of worry over that same, previously lost dog. I looked him in the eye and said, “Red! What are you doing outside that fence? Come back in here now, please.”

Red pivoted on his back leg, turned around, ran back up the hill, across the front and in through the gate. He ran right up to me, as if to assure me he really wasn’t planning to go anywhere. As soon as my heart resumed beating, I closed the gate. Even now, I am not sure I have yet sufficiently praised my well behaved, brilliant Red dog. I keep having flashbacks to the pictures I shared from almost a year ago that showed Red on the wrong side of the fence. At that time, I had no idea how I was ever going to get that terrified boy back inside the fence. I hadn’t even progressed to thinking about the concept of how to keep Red inside the fence once I got him there. I know Red could go over the five foot fence anytime he chose to leave. He already proved that to me a year ago. I also know, Red is with me now because he chose to return and he chooses to stay. I am extremely grateful.

Red is a very curious boy. Even if a situation is scary for him, Red will get far enough away to feel safe while he remains close enough to observe and make his own judgments. This has been an obvious trait of his for as long as I have known him. The entire time he was outside the fence at the beginning of our acquaintance, Red was observing and processing what he was seeing and hearing.

Red’s brother, Sky, had his first knee surgery five weeks ago to repair a luxating patella (dislocating kneecap). The second knee will need surgery also after he has recovered from this first surgery – and I have saved enough money to cover the second surgery. Sky only needed to be at the vet for one night following his surgery. The hard part is the six weeks following surgery when Sky’s activities are completely restricted. During that six week recovery time, Sky has not been able to run, jump, go up or down any stairs, go on walks, play with his brother, or be outside in the yard off leash. This has been extremely hard on both two year old boys – Sky and Red – along with being hard on me. But, as a result of all of the on-leash time that Sky has had, Red has had a lot of exposure to leashes that are not in any way causing pain. This has finally caused a large decrease in Red’s fear reaction when a leash is picked up. And, Red no longer reacts in terror if Sky’s attached leash touches Red when we are all out in the yard. Red’s improvement in this area was a completely unexpected benefit of this difficult recovery time.

Red has decided he has a couple of new jobs. He believes it is his job to announce very loudly every time someone walks past our house on the road. It doesn’t make any difference whether Red is inside the house or out in the yard. Red also believes it is now his job, when we have company to keep a very close eye on that company while they are inside our house. Anytime Red thinks the company might have forgotten that he is watching, he reminds them with a couple of sudden very loud barks. I guess Red doesn’t want a stranger to get too comfortable in his house! I am grateful that my company all understands that this is Red’s home and he is still working through some of his job descriptions.

I don’t know if any changes will ever come easily for Red. I do know that I will continue to present him with challenges to allow him to grow and overcome. When we are at home in his comfortable, familiar environment with just his family around him, Red is just a normal, loving Golden Retriever. I am optimistic there will come a day when he is able to show that to the world.

Thursday, April 27, 2006

This spring as Red shed his winter coat, he donned a slightly lighter color summer coat. I have a theory that improved nutrition is responsible for that color change. I have seen it a few times before with Golden Retrievers when they have made a switch to having their full nutritional needs met. Red is still red – he is just one shade lighter than he was.

For the very first time, Red barked to ask me to open the door and let him inside. Prior to this, he has waited to be invited, encouraged – OK, I admit, sometimes I have begged him to come inside. And, I have never been above using bribery! THIS time, he asked me to please open the door for him. It is no secret that over the years many dogs have moved me to tears. I have shed tears for Red for many reasons, ranging from fear for his safety to tears in response to his courage, and everything in between. No dog has ever been the cause of more tears of joy from me than Red. The actions I take for granted with other dogs are the result of incredible leaps of faith for Red. I can not imagine ever taking anything for granted where Red is concerned.

Red’s brother, Sky had knee surgery last Thursday to repair a luxating patella. Neither boy, but Red in particular can understand why I will not allow any run, play and chase sessions. Red is doing everything in his power to entice Sky to play. Red picks up one of Sky’s favorite toys and waves it in Sky’s face. Red prances up to Sky, jumps up in the air and comes down in a play bow with his rump in the air. I have been trying to convince both of them that six weeks isn’t so long. They are not buying that concept at all. Since Sky has to remain on leash during all brief trips outside, Red even tried to help him escape by chewing on the leash that was interfering with their play. I put a stop to that before Red had managed to free Sky from his “mom-anchor”. I expect this to be a very long six weeks!

On Tuesday evening Tucker 06-044 along with his foster sister, came over to visit with Red. Red had a wonderful time with two active playmates. Red is especially taken with girl dogs – he loves the girls!

When you see them apart, Tucker and Red could be mistaken for the same dog. Red has a much larger white mark on his chest. And Tucker is the color Red was before he lightened his coat for the summer. I couldn’t understand why I couldn’t get pictures that showed how identical the two boys look. I finally realized the difference that makes them photograph differently. Tucker holds his neck more parallel to the ground, while Red holds his neck more up and down. Tucker lowers his whole head and Red just lowers his nose. That makes them look different from each other even though they have the same head shape and size, the same eyes, the same length of nose, the same smile, the same body type and shape, the same degree of feathering. I think I managed to get a couple of pictures that show their differences and one that shows their similarities. Of course, Tucker does not have Red’s previous life experiences, and therefore does not have Red’s fears.

Red (left) and Tucker 06-044This is RedThis is Tucker 06-044

Saturday, January 28, 2006

Today Red attended his very first RAGOM meeting. He was in his very first large group. He handled the gathering in his own amazing way – with courage and curiosity. His Molly stayed in very close contact with him. She was extremely tolerant of Red’s laying on top of her!

For months I have been agonizing over what would be the best home for Red, the Wonder Dog. Today, at the RAGOM meeting I asked for and received the signatures of the entire RAGOM Board on Red’s adoption paperwork. I could have signed the paperwork myself – as both his foster mom and as his new forever mom. But, because Red is so special, I wanted to receive the entire board’s active approval. Red may be the first RAGOM dog to receive such a resounding endorsement.

I would like to share with you my reasons why I believe my home to be the best home for Red.

We do not know what situation Red came from. We can only speculate on the details. We do know it had to have been pretty horrific for Red to have developed the intense fears that he learned. I do believe fear is learned based on experience.

I made several promises to him when I first met Red. I have repeated these promises to him on many occasions since then. I promised Red I would never hurt him or give him a reason to fear me. I promised Red I would never allow any one to ever hurt him again. I promised Red I would do my best for as long as it takes to help him forget, or at least overcome, everything bad that had happened to him. I promised Red there was no deadline on his recovery. I promised Red he would never be hungry again. I promised him I would prove to him that I never break my promises.

I can not control the actions of anyone other than myself. I can not ensure that my promises will be kept by any person other than myself. I can not know how anyone other than I will react in any situation. I can not place Red with someone else and entrust them to keep my promises.

Red has made such tremendous progress. I believe that Red’s progress is based on trust. I believe that if I allowed Red to go to someone else, he would revert most of the way backward. I don’t know if he would ever again progress this far. I do NOT believe I am the only one who could have gotten him to this point. But I do believe that moving him at this time or any time in the future would cause him irreparable harm. I believe moving him would cause Red to feel I had personally betrayed his love and his trust. That would break my heart.

Red depends on Molly. He watches Molly’s reaction to situations and places so he can know if he should be afraid. It is much easier for Red to be brave when he is able to physically touch Molly. She is his fear barometer. Sky is Red’s playmate and his big brother, but Molly is Red’s courage. Red’s dependence on Molly actually gives Molly the confidence to be braver than she ever was without Red. Red is good for Molly, and Molly is good for Red. It would be unfair to both to split them up.

My final reason for making this decision – I admit it, I am too darn selfish to give up this incredible dog. Red owns my heart. Molly, Sky, Red and I are a family.

I believe my heart has known that he belongs with me ever since Red made the choice to come back inside the fence. Since that day, I have known he could climb that fence again any time he chose to. He has made the choice to remain with me each time he has gone outside. I thank Red every day for choosing to return and for choosing to remain.

Red will be remaining on the web site. I will continue to share him with people through my continued updates of his progress.

This is Red attending his first RAGOM meeting

Thursday, January 19, 2006

Red, Molly and Sky had the honor of hosting Wolfie 05-398 for a few days last week. Wolfie loves tennis balls and was able to transmit a small part of that tennis ball love to Red. Red particularly enjoys getting the tennis ball and keeping it away from the others (particularly Sky!) who want that ball. Red can definitely be a tease when the opportunity arises!

Even though I have neglected to mention it, Red’s limp has been gone for some time now. I believe there are several reasons for this. The first reason is that he has been receiving consistently good nutrition in adequate quantities. The second reason is the pills, which he considers his peanut butter treats, which he takes twice a day. Since Red has been in the house and willing to take food from my hand, he has been receiving the following:

Glucosamine 750 mg every morning and every night – totaling 1,500 mg daily

Chondroitin 600 mg every morning and every night – totaling 1,200 mg daily

MSM 500 mg every morning and every night – totaling 1,000 mg daily

Vitamin C 500 mg every morning and every night – totaling 1,000 mg daily

Fish Oil 1000 mg every morning and every night – totaling 2, 000 mg daily

Organic Flaxseed Oil 1000 mg every morning and every night – totaling 2000 mg daily

Acidophilus capsules - two each morning ½ hour before breakfast

Red LOVES his peanut butter treats! When one of the dogs sees me reach for the pills, they call the others and they all sit lined up waiting their turn. Molly gets the first treat, Red gets the second one, and Sky gets the third. They know I don’t play favorites. They will each have their turn. By always giving the pills to the dogs in the same order, I don’t mess up and get Molly’s thyroid pill or someone’s antibiotic into the wrong dog.

The third reason is time. Time is sometimes the best healer of all.

The final reason I believe Red’s limp has disappeared is because he is becoming less fearful as he is exposed to more situations where he is not hurt. So, he is stiffening his muscles less which is putting less stress on his joints and ligaments.

As in my last update, I believe all improvements are interrelated. As he feels better because his joint pain is addressed, Red is able to feel more confidence in new situations. This in turn gives him even more confidence and less fear for each successive adventure his life journey has become.

This is Red keeping the tennis ball away from Sky and Wolfie

Tuesday, January 10, 2006

Red is a boy who is able to sometimes see the big picture and as a result his progress in one area creates progress in other areas. So, I believe that all of Red’s forward steps are related to each other. This update is one of interrelations and big steps. It is the story of our trip up north to the cabin after Christmas.

Red has decided that our cabin – which is a work in progress, is another safe place. It does not matter to him what is broken or what is not yet completed. His Molly and his Sky are with him when he is there. He has his safe, fenced yard at the cabin as well as at home. He has his same food. His dog beds make the trips back and forth along with him. On the last trip, his favorite sofa was moved into the cabin. He gets to eat even more carrots at the cabin than he gets at home. Red loves carrots. He still gets his pills in peanut butter twice a day. Red loves peanut butter. He has never been hurt or yelled at or neglected either at home or at the cabin. Therefore, the cabin too, must be home. Therefore, the process of getting to the cabin must also be acceptable.

Going to the cabin involves, things getting packed. This includes clothing getting packed into a suitcase – the first clue. Food gets packed into boxes and coolers. The dog beds move from the bedroom to the entryway. A bag of dog food shows up in the entry way. The toy bag gets packed and added to the pile. A Red harness is added to the Red dog. Sky barks as each item is moved out the door and into the truck – “Don't forget me. Take me next! Are you forgetting me?” Yes, Sky’s barking does add to Red’s stress level. I hook up the trailer while the dogs watch through the door.

Leashes. They have been my albatross from the beginning of Red’s and my relationship. Leashes are not attached to dogs until everything else is already loaded in the truck. First a leash is attached to Sky, then Molly and finally to Red. I wonder if Red will ever learn to like a leash. But, this last time, RED DID NOT RUN. He cowered, but he did not run as I approached him with the leash. Red was afraid, but he was not terror struck. I don't know of any way to convey to anyone what a major breakthrough that was.

I hold Red by the harness while Sky and Molly are allowed to erupt out the door and into the open truck door. I have to get Red out the house door in time to watch Molly get boosted into the truck. Red goes into the truck much more easily after he has already watched Molly getting in. Then, Red and I work our way out to the truck. This time, RED JUMPED INTO THE TRUCK! I didn't have to pick up 200 pounds of Red dog with 12 stiff legs sticking straight out in all directions and fit him through the doorway of the truck. Red did it. He jumped in. He pushed his way between Sky and Molly and lay down on the dog beds in the middle so he was touching both of them. There is safety in numbers – especially when you are on your own bed. No matter where this is located.

When we arrived at the cabin, I took a firm hold on Red’s leash while Molly and Sky did their usual eruption out of the truck. They love the cabin. This time, RED GOT OUT OF THE TRUCK ON HIS OWN! I took him into the cabin. Red explored to make sure it really was his cabin and I hadn't pulled a switch. He watched while I brought the dog beds in. Then the dogs all went out into the yard and checked over every inch to be sure it had not changed since their last visit.

The two weeks we spent at the cabin were uneventful as far as Red was concerned. Except for the day some friends came over and helped me unload the trailer. Red was obviously ecstatic when he realized the only items moved in were things he recognized and already considered as his. After all, when Red had first decided to lay claim to my house, he had marked that sofa several times as belonging to him. He never could understand why I worked so hard to un-do his work in that area. I am so glad we are well past that particular need!

When it was time for us to go home, we did a repeat of our previous successes. Red does not seem to progress until he is pretty much ready to remain at the new level. I have worked hard to do what I can to ensure that he can win in new situations. He does his part by trying not to backslide. So, again Red jumped into the truck. When we arrived home, he jumped out of the truck and more easily (for Red) went from the truck to the house. He checked his food dish first to see if maybe he had left food in it before we went up north. All three dogs then went outside to check for changes in their “town yard” while they were in the north.

One difference that Red has found between his two yards – the rabbits and squirrels in town have a death wish. Why else would they venture inside a 5 foot high chain link fence that often contains 3 or (sometimes) more large dogs? Red is happy to turn that wish into a reality. Because Red was on his own before he was convinced to come in from the cold by the wonderful people who rescued him, Red learned to be a very effective hunter. This was simply a matter of survival for him. I can not get mad at him for learning to survive. I am grateful that he did. I am also grateful that I do not have any small animals that have a prior claim on my heart. I do wish he would understand that I really prefer that he only eat the food I am happy to supply for him.

Red is planning to make his first public debut. With Molly’s very close help and support, Red will be attending the next RAGOM meeting. Please wish him courage. It will not be an easy day for him, but it will help him to grow and hopefully gain in confidence.

This is typical of what happens as the dog beds prepare to go to the cabin. Red and Molly decide the beds aren't going anywhere without them.Red, Sky and Molly relaxing at the cabin.Beds and puppies all in a row.Red and Molly and dog beds preparing to leave the cabin.

Saturday, December 10, 2005

Red has become a traveling man. We have taken him on several short vehicle rides. The way we accomplish this is by attaching leashes to all three dogs - two are very exited and ready to go as soon as they think I might be reaching for a leash. The third immediately performs his beautiful Red dog anchor routine. After about 15 minutes Red relaxes. Only after Red is relaxed - this is a relative term - do I take Molly and Sky out to the van or the truck. OK, I admit it. I open the vehicle door then open the house door, then I get out of the way and I try to get to the vehicle in time to boost Molly in. She can manage the van on her own, but not the truck. Red watches. Then I take hold of Red's leash and work on the coaxing and half carrying him out of the house and to the car. Each time I am able to exert just a little less of my energy and he exerts just a little more of his own in moving in the correct direction. It is looking as if when we reach 100 completed car rides, Red may also reach 100% of his own power to get to the car. I am guessing we only have about 92 car rides to go!

When we reach the vehicle, I pick Red up and put him in, being careful to not catch on anything, any of the stiff legs that he has sticking out at every angle he can. I understand how he doubles his weight as he magically changes from an animate being to an inanimate object. But, how does he manage to double his number of appendages at the same time?

As soon as Red is in the vehicle and touching Molly, he relaxes. The rides themselves seem to be very pleasant for Red. He sits and looks out the window, or he lies down and relaxes. As long as we are moving and Red is touching his Molly, nothing is too scary.

Red has even become protective of the vehicle he is in. When we stop for a stop light, he barks at the car behind if it gets too close. When we are stopped on a multiple lane road and there is a vehicle beside us, Red barks because he doesn't seem to think they should be that close. He always stops as soon as I reassure him that vehicle can be there and it is OK. But, that only takes care of it for that one vehicle at that one stop.

Red really doesn't like grocery store parking lots. It really wears him out having to protect his vehicle from all of the people walking past and driving past - and he REALLY does not think anyone should park next to us and get into or out of their car. You should see Red warning off a Hummer! We were only in that parking lot for about 15 minutes, but poor Red was completely exhausted by the time we left. It is really hard work to be a guard dog.

Can you imagine what kind of courage it takes for a dog who was as terrified as Red was, to stand up and try to protect what he thinks of as his from all of those strangers? Red has come such a long way. He is my hero.

I am still going to be taking Red to parking lots many more times. I don't think we will be trying a car wash any time in the foreseeable future!

Red has finally made his first trip up north. He rode for 3½ hours each way. When we arrived, I parked as close to the front door of the cabin as I could manage. Molly and Sky, as usual, exploded out of the truck. They love being at the cabin. Red looked, implied that he would wait in the truck until we arrived back at his house, planted himself, and hoped I would let things stand. But, poor Red, I am just one of the many burdens he is forced to bear! I picked up the Red anchor with the 12 stiff legs sticking out and carried him into the cabin. Maybe I have been feeding him too well. I am sure he is getting heavier!

I would have liked to keep him inside the cabin for at least an hour that first time to give him time to get used to it. But, he had been in the truck for almost four hours and really needed to get back outside. I removed leashes and let all three dogs out the back door & into the new fenced yard that was a prerequisite for Red's first visit. After they completed their thorough perimeter examination, and proclaimed the entire area theirs, Molly and Sky told me it was cold and they were ready to come back inside. Red needed about an hour and a half with the door wide open (I enjoy heating the north country!) and lots of encouragement and many, many carrots (the favorite treat) to decide that maybe he could re-enter the cabin. It was just slightly above zero and he really was cold. Red still will not allow me or anyone else to take hold of him while he is outside. So, he really needed to make the choice himself to come in out of the cold. During the remainder of the five days we were there, it never took more than 20 minutes for him to choose to come inside. Everyone received carrots each time they came in. They consumed 4 pounds of baby carrots during that 5 day period. Because, after all, if one gets a treat, they all need a treat!

Red was thrilled to arrive safely back at his house and yard, where everything was familiar. He will be re-visiting the cabin right after Christmas. Hopefully the next visit will prove less traumatic for him!

This is a picture of Red and Molly sharing a dog bed while at the, obviously still under construction, cabin. We are hoping to have hot water the next time we are there!

Thursday, November 24, 2005

I apologize for the lack of a recent update to all of you who are interested in Red’s progress.

Red does continue to progress. He doesn’t make huge steps, but does make forward progress with very few backward detours. He is a constant joy to be around.

Anytime there are multiple dogs in a group the relationships between those dogs shift and change over time. Red and Sky continue to be friends and playmates, but Red now will occasionally tell Sky when Sky is being too rough. I think Red also gets tired of being ambushed by Sky as he comes up the stairs. Red and Molly have become extremely close. They will often play together – yes, Red has succeeded in teaching Molly how to play! Red is always careful to be extremely gentle with Molly. The two of them are now spending increasing time together. They will often snuggle together on one dog bed.

Red seems to have decided that Molly’s reaction to new things is a more accurate barometer than Sky’s reaction. Sky believes the entire world was made to revolve around him. He has never been hurt by anyone in this world and as a result has no fears. Molly knows that sometimes things can be a little scary, but nothing has hurt for a long time now, so maybe it will be OK. Molly and Red are now both willing to try to out maneuver Sky so they can receive their share of the attention. The dynamics between the three dogs are really interesting to watch.

Red continues to distrust leashes or collars or harnesses that are in a hand near him. Yet, he seems to feel ownership of his collar and his harness. Sky routinely takes Red’s collar and harness off of Red. Then Red either carries them or guards them until I pick them up to put them back on him. As soon as they are in my hand, the association for Red changes from something that belongs to Red to something that might be used to hurt Red. This breaks my heart. It is the only time when Red still seems to think I might hurt him. Once the collar or especially the harness is back on him, Red acts proud to show it off. It is as if he is trying to tell the world, “See this? I am important enough to have my very own Red harness! Aren’t I handsome!?” He prances and postures with his head held high.

Then as soon as I attach a leash everything changes again. Red continues to consider a leash to be an anchor rope, with the Red dog as the anchor. Attach a leash and Red instantly drops, stiffens up, and gains 100 pounds. I have been putting leashes on Sky and Molly and just letting them drag them around for a while. Then I attach one to Red and move away from him. I wait as long as it takes for him to begin to relax and start to move around again. If I take hold of the leash the anchor imitation begins all over again. He remains afraid and easily spooked until I remove the leash, but we are slowly making progress. Just don’t make the mistake of assuming that the leash attached means that Red is actually going to voluntarily move in a direction of my choosing! That hasn’t happened yet.

Red has been going for car rides lately. As you might imagine from his reaction to a leash, the “to” and the “from” the car are the difficult/traumatic parts of car rides. The “during” is just fine, maybe even enjoyable. Red either lies down and relaxes or sits and looks out the window. Either is fine with him as long as he is touching Molly. During the “to” and the “from”, Red does his anchor imitation. He just doesn’t see any reason he should ever have to leave his house or his yard. Molly and Sky do not understand Red’s resistance – they love to go everywhere. But Red is smart. He will catch on eventually.

Red is also learning to sit on command. All of the commands are slightly more challenging to teach without the use of a leash. Or, maybe it is just that Red’s foster mom is slower than some?

I thank RAGOM daily for allowing me the joy of sharing Red’s journey.

Red is REaDy for Halloween!Molly wants TREATS!Sky is hoping to scare up some extra Halloween treats!

Saturday, October 8, 2005

Red has had a very busy social calendar lately. The weekend of the RAGOM picnic Red enjoyed visits from several out of town RAGOM volunteers – including volunteers from Nebraska and the other side of South Dakota. I think I am safe in saying that Red continues to charm everyone he meets. He and Molly entertained each other while Sky took me to the picnic. Red is the best host when people bring their dogs over. Red welcomes all dogs for play time. There have been a few dogs that don't seem to like Red, but he is obviously baffled as to why that would be. He is the easiest going guy I have met.

I have also finally managed to give him a bath. I decided he was never going to volunteer. If Red is afraid and is not able to get away, his response is to stiffen all of his muscles and joints and gain about 100 pounds. Then he shakes. He doesn't just tremble, he shakes. I kept him in the bath tub in warm water until he stopped shaking and began to relax. I had to keep adding warm water so he didn't freeze. I think it took almost an hour before he decided maybe baths aren't quite as scary as he thought. I keep trying to find ways for him to win in every situation.

Red’s latest blood test came back. His original Titer level was 125. His current level is 60. Since the level is lower, he is considered to be cured of his Lymes Disease. That meant he could finally go back to the vet for the necessary procedures. So, I again sedated Red – and again it didn't work. I picked him up and carried the stiff, shaking, heavy, Red statue, from the farthest corner of the basement, up the stairs, out the door and into the van and held him while my mother drove us to the vet. I carried him in to the vet so he could then have the surgery to remove his extraneous, under the tail accessories. I reversed the steps a few hours later with a groggier Red boy. I can finally say Red is neutered and up to date on shots.

Golden Retrievers are the most amazing animals. I was obviously the party responsible for what he experienced at the vet. By the next day, Red had completely forgiven me. I don't know of any people who could be that instantly forgiving after being so traumatized.

Anytime Red has been really scared and stiffened up, he always suffers from it. His limp is a lot worse for several days following any traumatic incident. His limp is apparently caused by stress to the ligaments. Both of his front legs show signs of this stress, with the left front leg being the worst. There is apparently nothing that we can do for this other than to watch and try to control the pain. Only time will tell us if this is a progressive condition or not. I haven't yet figured out how to isolate Red from everything that is scary in order to keep him from additional pain.

I mentioned in my last update that Red has learned how to wag his tail. Some dogs wag their tails back and forth. Red’s tail wags in a circle. Picture a propeller on a plane. Then picture the plane half way down the runway and the propeller suddenly reverses direction. I think it can only get wound up so far before it has to reverse to relieve the pressure! With the exception of the first 24 hours right after I took him to the vet, since Red’s tail started to move, it hasn't stopped except when he is sleeping.

Red has decided he isn't going to sit back and wait for what he wants any more. When he wants attention and I am sitting down, he now climbs into my lap and asks for attention. His kisses are no longer tentative – he exuberantly licks my face when he climbs into my lap.

Red decided that there is absolutely no reason why Molly can't play with him when he wants her to. Sky has been working on getting Molly to play since he met her. Molly has made some tentative moves, but she has obviously never really learned how to play. Today, for the first time, Red actually got Molly to really play. Molly is 9 years old this month. I am ecstatic that she is finally figuring out how to have fun! Now, if either Red or Sky can teach Molly to actually pick up a tennis ball, I will know she has finally completely learned to be a cherished Golden Retriever!

I haven't actually worked with Red with any commands other than come. Since I can't use a leash with him, I haven't pushed anything other than good house manners. However, I strongly encourage dogs to allow me to wipe their feet when they come into the house. Molly is afraid of towels. Red is afraid of doorways – especially with people in them – and even more especially when the person in the doorway has something in their hand. Sky loves the extra attention. Red has been watching all this time, while Sky gets the attention when he comes in the door. Today when I told Sky to sit, Red sat also about 5 feet away. I knew Red was watching and listening. I knew he was figuring things out. He is so smart!

This is Red and Sky welcoming Neville 05-294 for a brief romp! I love pictures of Red's flying ears.Look at how fluffy Red is after a bath!

Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Red has made a sudden, huge leap forward in his progress. I have a friend who is a school teacher. She has told me stories of kids who seem to sleepwalk through school until they are suddenly struck by just the right set of facts to set their imagination free. She has described the instant when the light bulb is turned on and suddenly the student is connected. That is the closest analogy I can think of to describe the change in Red. He has suddenly become an active participant in his life.

Yesterday, Red discovered how to wag his tail. It hasn't stopped moving since. Previously, Red was forgetting more and more often to keep his tail tucked tightly between his legs, but there wasn't any actual tail wagging.

Normally when I return to the house, Sky and Molly fuss and cry and wiggle and tell me how much they missed me, while Red holds back and sneaks in close enough to give me a quick hand kiss then darts away again. Today, Red was right in the midst of the wiggling happy dogs, demanding his full share of the attention. He isn't taking a back seat to anyone now.

Sky has always been the instigator of the play. He has spent a great deal of time dragging Red around by his collar, or his cheek, or his ear and chewing on whatever part of Red was the handiest. You should have seen Sky's surprise when Red grabbed Sky's collar and pulled him around! Previously, Sky has been the player and Red has been the playee. Red has finally become an active, FULL participant and is just as likely as Sky to decide it is playtime.

If Red has had something, I have been able to count on Sky wanting it and taking it away from Red. Red has always just let him take it. Today, Red had a woobie and Sky decided he wanted it and took it. Red jumped up, grabbed it back and took off running with it. Sky was absolutely frozen in shock for about 30 seconds! Why don't we ever have a camera in hand at the right time? Sky's expression was priceless. For the first time since Red arrived, I am now finding woobie carcass parts all over. Tug of war is tough on woobies! I will buy Red as many toys as he wants to actively play with. This is so wonderful to see!

I am no longer able to think of Red as the Red ghost dog or the Red spirit dog. He now seems to have completely arrived.

Red and I still have some challenges to overcome. He remains terrified of leashes or anything that resembles a leash. I switched to working with a piece of yarn, in an attempt to ease Red into the concept of a leash. Even that is a source of terror as soon as it is picked up. This is the main area in which I have made no progress. I remain completely open to suggestions - maybe someone has an idea I haven't thought of yet? Until I can conquer this leash phobia, car rides are out. I insist that I have to be able to control dogs as they exit a vehicle.

I switched the dogs to Pet Chef Express dog food a couple of weeks ago. Red still seems to have an aversion to eating out of a dish that is intended to be his alone. So, I have been feeding both Red and Sky the Sensitive formula because of Sky's allergy to wheat. Molly is given the Lean formula because she is weight challenged. Red has decided that he is just as happy eating Molly's food as he is eating Sky's food - but he still will not eat out of his own dish. Molly thinks she is being abused because her food is different - and less. Red thinks that Molly's diet food is really good stuff and is perfectly willing to share his and Molly's food with her. (Do you suppose this is similar to the concept that the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence?)

I have been feeling guilty because it has been so long since I sent any new pictures of Red. I am making up for that lack today! Please notice, Red is now growing feathers on his legs and his tail is beginning to fill out. His coat is much thicker and softer than it was and I think he has reached a good weight for him.

Someone actually tried to convince me that dogs don't smile. They have obviously never met Red - or most other Golden Retrievers - or other dogs, either, for that matter.

Wednesday, August 10, 2005

How do I possibly convey how incredible this Red puppy is? He has made such huge progress in a relatively short period of time. Everyone who meets him is completely captivated by him. Every day he makes progress toward becoming the special golden boy he was meant to be. I am in awe of his spirit and his resilience.

Red now eats all of his meals out of a bowl in the kitchen. He and his foster brother still trade back and forth - because even though I know I put exactly the same food and the same amount in each dish - and they watched me do it, they are convinced what the other one is eating is even better than what is in front of them! Foster sister still tries to eat their food and they still try to eat hers - but she, because of her special needs, is not allowed to participate in the musical cuisine dance.

Red will now go through the door into the house without needing to have me prop it open and get completely out of sight of the door. He is not at all comfortable with being petted while he is near the door. But, he will now go through the doorway while I hold the door open for him. This is a much bigger step for him than I can possibly convey to anyone.

No matter where he is in the house or in the yard, when I call him, Red always comes running. I don't think my heart will ever stop skipping a beat when he is in the yard but out of my sight. His presence is not something I am ever likely to take for granted. But, I also know that Red has decided he is safe in this yard and in this house. I have opened the gate and tried to coax him out. I have opened the front door of the house and tried to coax him out. In both situations, Red has conveyed to me in very clear terms, he is not the least bit interested in leaving. He told me there are no treats special enough to convince him to step through either opening, yet.

Red still will not participate in anything that is requested with a leash. He sees a leash in a person's hand and tries to get away. I have intentionally left leashes laying all over the house. He is not afraid of them unless they are picked up. With coaxing, Red allows me to pet him with a leash - which we practice several times every day. He will even allow me to attach a leash to his collar - but he lays down and gains at least 100 pounds. He will not yet move with the leash attached. I do not force him to do anything. I continue to give him many opportunities each day to progress in a manner that is comfortable for him.

Red has figured out that toys are fun. He particularly enjoys the squeaky soft stuffed toys. I particularly enjoy seeing him act like a playful puppy! Red follows me everywhere. If I am walking through the house and not paying attention, I periodically feel the lightest, most gentle touch on the back of my leg. It is the nose of a very sweet Red boy, staying close. Red also thinks his foster brother can do no wrong - guess who has been teaching a sweet Red puppy a couple of bad habits? What is funny to watch is the few times I am going in one direction, and Sky is going in a different direction. Poor Red has the hardest time figuring out who to follow!

Red is continuing to take his antibiotics. His UA infection seems to be long gone. His ears now look good - much to his relief. He really does not enjoy the ear drops. With his continued treatment for Lymes Disease, his limp is now almost completely gone. He loves taking his pills - I'm sure it is the peanut butter they are stuck to, but he and his foster siblings sit and wait patiently as soon as I reach for the peanut butter. Three gorgeous faces lined up watching with expectations of good about to come their way.

In addition to the antibiotics, Red also receives 2 1000 mg fish oil pills twice a day, 1000 mg of Glucosomine Condroitin twice a day and 500 mg of vitamin C twice a day. And, half way between his two antibiotic pills, Red also gets acidopholus. And Red has been receiving flower essences. In his water bucket outside the fence, before he came back, he was receiving Bach's Rescue Remedy (deer, possums, raccoons, squirrels, bunnies, blue jays, and a couple of stray dogs (I never considered Red a stray!) also enjoyed the Rescue Remedy water). Since he has been in the house, Red has been receiving Master's Tomato essence for courage and Grape for love. I wouldn't spend the money on the flower essences if I didn't think they make a big difference.

I am sure I have gotten a few added pounds on Red. He will always be slim, but now his backbone no longer sticks up and his ribs are not quite so prominent. I am happy to say, Red seems to be thriving. His vet and I have decided that he will not be receiving his shots or be neutered until after he has completed his full course of antibiotics for Lymes Disease. Red's trips to the vet are so traumatic for both him and me, that we will wait to take him back until we can complete everything at once.

This is Red enjoying his new blanket that was made and donated by some wonderful Girl Scouts.This is Red in his role of Pillow for his foster brother. Sometimes they switch places. Red and Sky also act as each other's favorite chew-toys.

Tuesday, August 2, 2005

Beautiful Red puppy had a busy weekend. He entertained several RAGOM volunteers who where kind enough to visit him and help him to realize there are many people in this world. Most of those people will not hurt him. He is very much enjoying the new toys they brought for him. Red is such a gorgeous young boy, he completely charms everyone who meets him. More visits are welcome. Red has a long way to go before he will believe he is truly safe with people. It breaks my heart knowing he is so young and has already been exposed to some of the worst of what people are capable of. The good news is, because of his youth, Red is much more likely to be able to overcome his earliest conditioning.

I called the vet yesterday afternoon since I still hadn't heard any news on the results of Red's heartworm test. Red is heartworm NEGATIVE! He is a definite Lymes Disease kind of boy, but we expected that and he started his four weeks of antibiotics last Thursday. Red is very good at taking pills. As soon as I reach for the jar of peanut butter, Red and his foster brother and sister line up in expectation of a treat. In this house, we don't play favorites - when one gets a treat, they all get a treat.

Red continues to make progress on overcoming his fears. He is improving on coming through the door into the house. Originally, the only way to get him through was to prop the door open and then get out of sight of the doorway. Now, about half the time, he doesn't need that. I can open the door, as long as I don't look at him and my back is turned, and Sky is coming in at the same time - Red will dash through the door. When the door is closed, he is not afraid of it, but he sure acts as if he expects it to attack him when it is open.

Red is now eating his meals out of a dish in the kitchen. He gets the first handful of each meal from my hand to get him started, then Red and Sky play musical food dishes trading back and forth until their meal is finished. Because of Molly's weight issues, she is not allowed to participate in that trading.

I have not managed to make any more progress with Red on the concept of a leash. But he always comes running when I call him and Sky. They are never more than a couple of feet apart, and can often be found wrestling or using each other as either chew toys or pillows.

Please note - Red is now not wearing a harness in addition to his collar. He decided, that since Sky doesn't have to wear one, neither does he. He apparently chewed through the chest strap and was wearing it as a belt. It is a very straight cut - and I am sure I have not given him any sharp objects nor have I seen any indication Red now has opposable thumbs.

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

Please allow me to introduce **Red the house dog**! Red is now sporting the oily looking spot on his back that proves he is a Frontline kind of guy. He has had some brushing - needs a bath and lots more brushing, but we do baby steps only right now.

Today's breakfast was fed to Red by hand in the kitchen. (Sky was hoping that was going to be the new feeding method at our house - life can be so unfair!)

Red does not like to be approached. He prefers to do the approaching. And he will only approach when there is another dog present. I don't think he would ever be comfortable as an only dog. His belonging and comfort are very strongly connected with other dogs and the way they react to the things around them. Red is not an alpha dog. He is the epitome of a pacifist. He was very happy to allow Carmel to boss him around - which she enjoyed doing. Even Molly, who is easily overwhelmed, has never been overpowered by Red.

Red has checked out each of the dog beds - except the one inside a crate - he doesn't care how cushy that one is, he won't get near it. He prefers Molly's princess pillow (big and soft and fluffy - reminds me of the princess and the pea story). Molly has agreed that Red can lie on it sometimes, after all, when she was a foster dog, Hawkeye shared his bed with Molly.

Red thinks he might like toys. He just doesn't really seem to know what to do with them. This weekend we spent some time chasing tennis balls. Red and Sky run the fastest. Carmel runs the most determinedly. If one of the others got to it first, Carmel gave them the look - the one that says, "that is MY tennis ball. You can back off and give it to me now, or I can sit on you and take it away from you. It is your choice, but either way, I get the ball." Carmel always came back with the ball. But Red had a good time running with the other dogs.

Since he has been in the yard, Red has been collecting the toys each time he is alone in the yard, and moving them to his favorite spot, so that when he lays down they are all within reach. I am going to have to go to buy him a bunch of his own - maybe with his own canvas bag to put them in. Maybe I will have some luck with teaching this dog to pick up his toys when he through with them. I sure haven't had any luck with teaching that concept to any of the other dogs!

He doesn't want to have anything to do with a collar, or harness or leash. So, he still is not wearing anything except Frontline. I am allowing Red to call the shots as to when he is ready for things. I just keep giving him the opportunities to expand.

I have been practicing total immersion with Red - I have spent every waking minute with him, babbling away in a low volume. He has not been able to turn around without my being there, nor has he gotten any relief from the sound of my voice, except when I am sleeping. I don't back him into any corners. If he backs off, so do I. Tomorrow I will be carrying an Easy Walk harness all day. With the goal of getting that on him. I expect that to ultimately be less scary for him than a collar is. As soon as I am able to non-traumatically get Red into either the harness or a collar, I will be making an appointment for a veterinary house call. But, I need Red to wear one or the other for a couple of days without anything traumatic happening to him as a result before it is used to contain him while he is given shots and having blood drawn. So, while I am very anxious to get Red under veterinary care, I do not want him to associate a collar or harness with that.

I am encouraging everyone I know to stop by - one or two at a time (no young children yet, please) - and meet him. I believe that the fastest way to counteract his severe fear of people is to introduce him to many people - none of whom hurt him or yell at him or back him into any corners. The more good people he meets, the faster those numbers will replace the bad memories. Since we are not even contemplating car rides for Red yet, people stopping by are the only way I can accomplish this goal.

My methods are not the same as everyone's, but they work for me and seem to be working for Red, too. Please keep thinking good, safe, comfortable thoughts in Red's direction.

Red has been laying 4 feet away from me while I have typed this. He has heard every word as I have typed it. He is probably hoping I will lose my voice really soon!

Sunday, July 17, 2005

I just had to share this picture. This is Carly, who was visiting for the weekend, and Red the ghost dog enjoying a good breeze and the pool on a hot day. Isn't Red adorable with his ears blowing in the wind?

Saturday, July 16, 2005

I picked up Frontline yesterday at the vet when I picked up the wormer and Giardia drug. The first dose of wormer went into Red last night. He needs another one in 2 weeks - that is waiting for him in my frig. Cross your fingers that I'm able to get the horrible bug drug into him 6 times. When I can touch him, Frontline goes on. Any ticks that fall off of him alive are falling in MY yard and looking for another dog or person to suck on!

97 degrees calls for a pool party!! Red and Molly behind pool - Carmel, Carly and Skylar in pool.Beautiful Red ghost dog up close and personal.See the smile?! Pretty rakish don't you think?Red LIKES the girls. He thinks Carly is HOT stuff and he agrees with Carmel that she is the boss any time she wants to be! I think Red has decided this is an OK place for him to stay. Lots to eat, pretty girls to play with, and a foster mom who talks a lot - 2 out of 3 isn't bad.

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Red, Carmel, Molly and Skylar and I have had a long day. Red is inside the fence. He is well fed and busy chewing on a bone. He will not yet allow a collar or slip leash, nor will he even consider coming into the house. But he chose to come inside the fence through the gate this afternoon and I am hopeful he will remain inside. He has food and fresh water - and free use of the wading pool.

My throat is raw from all the talking I have done since 5:00 AM this morning. I think Red is ready for some peace and quiet - although he is too polite to say so!

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Today for the very first time Red is spending the day in the trees behind my fence. He has not disappeared to someplace else. We have had several more talks since this morning.

Red is developing favorites in the treats I am offering to him. So far, he seems to be voting for Natural Balance Turkey. Skylar, Molly and Carmel agree. So far today Red has eaten almost 8 cups of Precise Plus dog food and almost 1/2 pound of Natural Balance. I am stopping with the treats for the day so he doesn't explode!

There is too much activity in the business on the other side of the trees for him to be willing to let me as close as he did this morning. Every sound from over there (which runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM) has him flinching and looking, so I am staying inside the fence and not pushing him very much. But, the Golden herd and I are spending a lot of time in the yard today. Red seems especially intrigued by the wading pool and the enjoyment that Carmel in particular is getting from it.

I am getting really tired of the sound of my own voice. Hopefully Red isn't!

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Email from Linda:

I talked to Red for 2 full hours this morning. He sniffed my fingers through the fence. He ate treats from the ground 5 feet from me - we were both on the same side of the fence. I got him to follow Carmel (05-192) to the gate but he wouldn't step through. I had left Skylar and Molly inside the fence to give Red more incentive to enter.

The live trap was delivered yesterday. But today was so promising, I want to try again tomorrow without it. It would be so much better if Red would come back because of trust instead of being trapped. The trust we are building is so fragile, I can't stand the thought of crushing it. I know I take a chance of losing him completely with each day that goes by with him loose, do you agree this is an acceptable risk to try one more day without the trap?

My boy believes no one should have to eat alone, so he is happy to keep Red company while he eats.

Response to Linda's question:

I totally agree that it is better to give him some time before we resort to trapping him. It would be so much better for his trust if he comes in the yard on his own. Hang in there, he will trust you more and more each day.

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

Email from Linda:

This is Red. Please note he is still located on the wrong side of the fence and is not wearing a collar. But he will now allow me to approach within 10 feet of him - as long as I am on the opposite side of the fence from him. Isn't he a beautiful boy?!

Our meetings occur at 5:00 AM and he allows me to talk to him for more than an hour each morning. He waits and watches while I give him fresh food and water. On the days when he is here, he eats between four and five cups of Precise Plus dog food. He enjoys playing with my 19 month old boy through the fence. He still is not coming for food or company every day - he did not visit this morning.

Monday, June 27, 2005

It's been 5 days since Red's disappearance. The weather has been hot and humid. Everyone is extremely worried about Red and hoping we'll soon receive good news. At 5:04 AM, we get our wish....an email from Linda, Red's foster mom!

At 4:10 AM this morning I positively spotted Red just behind my fence. He was playing with Skylar from the opposite side of the back fence. He is definitely the one who has been eating the dog food I have been putting out every night.

Red appears to have ditched the 25 foot cable. He fades into the trees and underbrush as soon as I am in sight. But he moves as if he is healthy and in perfect shape.

Wednesday, June 22, 2005

4:00 AM - Red goes missing - RAGOM volunteers spring into action - phone calls, flyers, an announcement added to the home page of the web site, search parties, and a multitude of prayers.