Golden Bond Rescue of Oregon, Inc.
Golden Retriever Rescue
For the Love of Goldens

Success story: Tasha (#455)

Photo of Tasha. Adopted December 2003

If Christmas magic really exists, Tasha's story belongs there. This beautiful dog came into Golden Bond care when her owners were no longer able to provide for the many medical and management needs of a dog with severe allergies. When Tasha was brought to her foster home, she had a large box with special food, several daily prescription medications, allergy serum and needles for once-weekly shots, booties to protect her feet when walking outside, medicated shampoos, hypo-allergenic toys, and many pages of vet records and allergy information.

Where to begin?? Tasha's foster mom consulted with a holistic vet, and a gradual nutrition and medical plan was developed. The notebook was developed, and daily entries were recorded... changes in diet to turkey and rice, then raw turkey and yams, slowly, slowly introducing each new element, recording information. Was it digested? Any observable behavior changes? Itching? Licking?? Poor Tasha, she was quite the subject of observation! This sweet dog began to learn that she could play with resident dogs, go on walks without her booties, and be a regular dog — even getting her feet muddy! Gradually, the medications were reduced — with no problems. The raw food diet, plus supplements seemed to be working well with her system. Tasha was cared for by two foster homes who shared the process over a few months, recording little changes and celebrating the positive results.

Then, the Christmas magic began, and a Golden Bond adopter appeared who understood the needs and who would welcome Tasha into their family. Kim and Brian came to visit Tasha and invited her into their home. Tasha will be in her new home for Christmas, with loving and knowledgeable adults and two children for play and affection. They will continue the good care and careful watch over this Golden Bond angel. Tasha, may you continue to play and roll in the dirt and get your feet muddy! You taught us much, and we know that you are looking forward to a wonderful new life.

Update: June 1, 2004

Tasha is doing very well. (As I type, she's laying on the futon in my office here at home.) Tasha had a dermatologist appointment back in March; this is the same doctor who has been treating Tasha for about two years. She said although she's not crazy about the raw food diet, she'd never seen Tasha looking better. We check back with her again this month. Also, this is supposedly Tasha's worst season for allergies and, so far (knock on wood), she's had no problems; no hot spots, itching, etc.

Tasha fits very well into our family. She and the cat have an agreement that as long as they pretend the other one doesn't exist, life is fine. Sometimes Tasha forgets her end of the bargain and is sure the cat really would like to play with her. Jana (the cat) has no qualms about putting Tasha back in her place. Tasha does well with the boys and she's been going to work with my husband on Mondays when I have a long day at school.

She has all her quirky golden features which makes her a real joy to have around.

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