Golden Bond Rescue of Oregon

The Spokane Ten

On Sunday, November 13, 2011, Golden Bond Rescue volunteers stepped in to help a sister Golden Retriever rescue organization, Inland Empire Golden Retriever Rescue located in Spokane, Washington. They had contacted GBR earlier that week asking if we could provide assistance by taking some of their 19 rescue dogs. One of their volunteers that fostered the dogs was ill and could no longer care for them. Since IEGRR did not have other foster families available, they needed immediate help finding temporary homes for as many dogs as possible. GBR offered to take all their Goldens and Golden mixes (13 total), but once the plans were finalized, only 10 dogs made the trip down the Columbia Gorge Highway to Portland. The other three dogs found forever homes in the Spokane area.

A caravan of GBR volunteers met the IEGRR caravan Sunday afternoon at the entrance to the Maryhill State Park in Washington (about a 2.5 hour drive East of Portland). The dogs were given time to stretch their legs, do their “business,” have a treat, and sniff the GBR volunteers, before they were loaded up into vehicles for the next leg of their journey.

Two and a half hours later, the GBR caravan pulled into the parking lot of Gabriel Park Vet Clinic located in SW Portland.  Ready and waiting for them were Dr. Libbi Hawkins and Vet Tech Jessica. One by one, each dog was taken into an exam room for:  an exam; immunizations (rabies, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and bordetella); a heartworm test; a fecal test (for internal parasites); a microchip; plus blood was drawn on the seniors for a senior blood panel. Once a dog had gone through this regimen, it was handed over to its new foster family.

All through the process of traveling for five hours, meeting several strangers, and being poked and prodded, their Golden spirit shone through. Some were a bit shyer than others, but all of them asked to be petted, gave the volunteers Golden grins, and several rolled over for belly rubs. There’s nothing like that Golden Heart!!!

Although GBR usually takes in a dog here and a dog there, it’s not unheard of for us to be called upon to take in a large population at one time. In 2010, we took in eight six month old puppies from a backyard breeder. In 2009, we were asked by the Oregon Humane Society to help with the Burns puppy mill event, which resulted in GBR taking in 19 dogs. This year we not only took in the 10 Spokane dogs, but a couple of months ago we were able to help four Parvovirus dogs.

Now that you know the background of our most recent “bulk” rescue, let us introduce you to The Spokane Ten.  We don’t have much history on the dogs, so stay tuned over the next 3-4 weeks for updates as their foster families get to know them.

Teddy (#2200) (left) is a ten year old boy who has the perfect name for his size and disposition. He has a huge blocky head and cuddles like a teddy bear. His owners turned him over to a shelter because he would escape their fence. Photograph by Zoe Duncan-Doroff

Gooch (#2201) (right) is a nine year old boy who was given up by his original owners because they didn't have a fence. so Gooch was free to wander in and out of traffic. His foster mom has reported that after only two days with her, he acts as though he's lived in her home for years. He's quite the character and loves to have his belly rubbed.

Bella (#2202) (left) is a 10 year old girl who lived a pretty secluded life with her original owner. Sadly her owner passed away and Bella now finds herself amongst strangers. She has severe arthritis in her spine and back legs which makes walking on smooth surfaces difficult. Because of her instability, she becomes agitated when surrounded by many dogs. We hope to find her a home where she can once again be the only princess in the home. She's very loving and sweet, and loves to have people down on her level talking to her gently.

Amber (#2203) (right) is a very active, very friendly 9 year old girl. Her original owner moved into a condo and couldn't take her along, so into rescue she comes. While waiting for her turn to meet Dr. Hawkins, Amber made a point of meeting every person who entered the door. Not only has her faced turned white, her body fur is turning a beautiful silvery color as well. She's slim and could probably walk most of us into the ground.

Ruby (#2204) (left) is a 9 year old Golden/Lab mix female. Her original owners moved and decided they couldn't take her along with them. She is very patient, has a loving nature, and is good around other dogs and cats. She was a little timid after a long day of traveling to Portland but cheered up once she got a few belly and ear rubs. Photograph by Zoe Dunkin-Doroff

Buster (#2205) (right) is a 10 year old boy who came from a shelter; we know nothing else about his background. His foster dad reported that after less than 24 hours at his house, Buster had figured out how to open drawers by grabbing the handles with his teeth and pulling them open. He was able to also push two heavy chairs away from the goody cabinet so he could help himself. He absolutely loves toys, gets along well with other dogs, and loves to be loved. He has several lumps that are going to be removed in the next few days.

Scarlett (#2206) (left) a 4 year old Golden/German Shepherd mix female spent the first year of her life in a shelter. She does very well with other dogs but is a bit timid in new situations. Of all The Spokane Ten dogs, she was the most scared. The moment her foster mom took Scarlett's leash and talked to her softly, Scarlett began to relax. If she became tense, her foster mom would give her a gentle pat and assure her all was well. Once Scarlett gains some self confidence, she is going to be one great companion! She had a couple of hot spots on her rear and is probably allergic to flea bites. Her forever family will need to be super diligent about flea prevention to keep her comfortable. Photograph by Zoe Dunkin-Doroff

Sierra (#2207) (right) is a 13.5 year old female. We have no information about her background, including why a 13.5 year old was given up to rescue. What we do know about her is that she is sweet, petite, and very loving. She's in excellent shape for a gal going on 14 and could keep her new family company on short leisurely walks. We've been told that she has some separation anxiety when left alone. Hopefully, her foster family will give us an update on that behavior soon.

Dirk (#2208) (left) is a 4 year old Golden/Some Kind of Hound mix male. We have no background on Dirk. We know that he gets along very well with other dogs, is mild mannered, and probably was abused. His mom reports that if she makes a sudden movement with her hands or claps, Dirk flops to the ground and begins shivering. After only two days in foster care, she is beginning to see Dirk gain confidence. He is very scared when on a leash and collar but does very well if wearing a halter. Update 11/17/11: According to Dirk's foster family, he is a huge love-bug and hasn't made a noise yet. They left him alone (other dogs, no people) for the first time and he did wonderfully. He was excited to see them, but didn't bark or jump.