Gentle Giant

During the August MN SNAP clinic, we ran the Ponemah shuttle to pick up animals to be neuter/spayed. On August 22nd shuttle, 2 male shepherds were surrendered. We named them Major and Captain. Both dogs were intact, malnourished, and suffering from mange and hair loss. They soon were off to the clinic and there began a process of healing and restoration.

Major was a large-boned german shepherd, and at first was quite subdued and lethargic. He was neutered and vaccinated and began treatment with ivermectin, revolution, and lots of great food and clean water. We soon discovered a bad case of diarrhea and began a treatment for giardia as well. Major was literally a rack of bones, and looked rather hopeless, but proved once again that when given a chance the animals in the worst shape will heal and become the beautiful creatures they were meant to be. We should not let first impressions deceive us.

On arrival Major weighed in at 58 pounds. Well, needless to say Major LOVED to eat and in particular all the great food we get at the shelter. Soon the sparse hair grew in thick and shiny and Major gained at least 42 pounds. His personality shined through and he came to be know as the Gentle Giant. He was a very playful and happy guy. He had many friends at the shelter, and I personally grew to love this big boy very much.

After 4 months at the RLRR shelter, Major left on Saturday, January 7th in the backseat of Mike and Lauren's car enroute to the care of Patti at Second Hand Dogs. It was hard to let him go, but again this was only the first part of his journey.

Thank you to all our supporters and volunteers who make this new life possible for a great animal, who otherwise would be deceased today. It makes it all worthwhile.

Karen