Think Big!

Last night, March 9th, Linda picked up Rouge, a bully mix, and took her home where she would spend the night before leaving on another transport this morning for her final rescue destination.  Rouge came with a handful of problems, but proved to be an affectionate, loving dog.

Linda asked that I let everyone know that this transport consisted of 78 dogs and puppies, and 10 cats.  The effort that goes into these transports is just incredible.  Once the dogs are rescued, usually in a southern state or Ohio, they have to get each transport organized, calling for volunteers to transport and/or host a dog overnight, or for foster families to house dogs, cats and puppies until a forever home is found.  And all this is after rescuing a massive number of dogs, getting them checked out by vets, who also volunteer their time and donate medicines and/or neutering, and then loading the animals on their transport vehicles.  It's a monumental task, but the people who do this are totally dedicated and do a tremendous job.  Please let your friends know about these efforts that occur just about every other week, and if anyone is interested in adopting any of these dogs, you can find most of them on www.petfinder.com.  Or contact me or Linda, and we'll get you in touch with the right people.

So, on to Rouge's story.  As you will notice, Rouge has very little fur.  She spent her entire life of about two years chained up outside, totally neglected, nearly starved to death, and ended up with a royal case of mange.

 Fortunately, Rouge was able to relax with her favorite toy, and she soon settled in at Linda's.  But she had a few peculiarties.  She wouldn't walk on any floor other than carpet.  This is often a symptom of a dog who has lived its whole life outside on grass (if they're lucky) or on dirt.  They have never walked on a hard surface, such as a sidewalk or street, and of course never have seen linoleum, hardwood floors or tile.

Rouge also had trouble negotiating the stairs -- because she'd never seen them before.

Linda soon discovered that Rouge loved a particular blanket, so Linda decided to let Rouge enjoy its comfort.

Later, after a long walk and some serious play time, Rouge was ready for a nap.  Linda covered her in the blanket, and then wrapped her up in it.  As you can see, Rouge was feeling quite cozy, and drifted off to  sleep.  You'd never know she was anything other than a contented pet, looking at these pictures.

Rouge was also quite affectionate with Linda, which is truly remarkable too, considering her experience with humans up to this point was pretty dismal, at best.  But she followed Linda around the house, and showered her with kisses every chance she got.

Rouge is now en route to parts further north, but she will always be remembered as a sweet, affectionate dog, whose life has just taken a dramatic turn for the better.  Her fur will grow in, and with a little TLC, she'll soon be sweeping potential adopters off their feet.