Bob is thirteen years old - a Jack Russell that was given up by a couple in March of 2003 after they had a baby. This, unfortunately, is an all too common excuse (as opposed to reason) humans use for abandoning animals they’ve had for years. Evidently, Bob didn’t take to the idea of being ignored by the adults while they let their kid poke, pull, and generally irritate him to no end. Without working with him, they expected Bob to know exactly what to do and when to do it. They warned us that Bob was a “biter,” that he did not like children and would not allow anyone to pick him up. Instead, they explained, he decided when he would deign to sit on your lap. That is unacceptable here at our sanctuary. The first time we met Bob, to the amazement of the abandoning couple, we let him smell our hand, particularly the palm, and then picked him up. It was no problem because it’s not astrophysics, it’s common sense. We treat all creatures with respect and compassion, establishing a thoughtful rapport with clear boundaries and no one is taken by surprise - especially the dogs. By the way, along with being an overall incredible dog, Bob is fantastic with the kids at Maryhurst (who, as defined by society, are “high maintenance” due to the serious abuse they’ve suffered). How come, you ask? Because with consistent patience and clarity, Bob responded like the intelligent and affectionate dog he has always been. We’d bet money that the kid Bob was sacrificed for is today far more trouble than Bob was ever accused of being back then. He’s not a disposable thing, but rather a beloved member of our family. Bob is an avid fan of television but only when animal related programs are on. Naturally, he enjoys “Animal Planet” and anything with dogs in the movie B animated or real life. Bob has a collapsed trachea that can cause him to cough like a two pack a day smoker. His previous family didn’t pay attention to his dental care until they noticed that his breath was funky. As a result, Bob suffers from chronic gingivitis (and, yes, halitosis) that requires he get his teeth cleaned every three months by the dental tech at the vet clinic. Actually, we have quite a few dogs here who require constant dental care due to early lifetime neglect. Always check your dog’s teeth and gums and do not put off dental cleaning. It’s just as important as human dental care. Lack of care leads to renal failure, congestive heart failure and blood poisoning ( just like in humans, so set a good example for your dog - brush your teeth, too!
