I’ve been meaning to find out what’s going on with Courage, the German Shepherd whose owner kept him chained in the back yard with no food or water for weeks. As you recall, Courage was down to 37 pounds when a good samaritan got him out of there and into the right hands. (If you want more background, just go to this blog’s search function in the right-hand column and type in “courage shepherd starved” for our stories.)
Anyway, things have been pretty busy here at Dogster World Headquarters, and it took Dogster Sylvia asking for an update to kick me into action. And I’m so glad she requested this. (Thanks, Sylvia!) We have great news, as you can see by his photo an headline on the left. Our boy is up to 60 pounds — and he loves playing with toys and with water coming out of a hose. To think that he couldn’t even swallow or lift his head when he was brought in. Hours away from death one month ago, and now a bouncing, healthy, happy boy. Truly a miracle, and much care and love from his rescuers.
Here are the updates from German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County since my last post. (Update: Scroll down for a new video we just learned about from another Dogster!):
April 22 — Courage went for his blood test today. He has gained 20 pounds since his 4/7 rescue! (So much for his past owner’s excuse that he thin because he was sick!) He is upright and has found his voice! This is one talkative dog–he has a lot to say! He is still bony but not as frail and he definitely has more stamina! Hurray!
April 24 — It’s official: Courage’s foster mommy wants to adopt him once all of the legalities have concluded! She can’t imagine living without him! Courage is learning what toys are! His muscles are getting stronger!
April 28–Courage continues to improve and is eating kibble! He gets fed 4 cups x 3 feedings per day. He is off of the special supplements so that we can see how his organs are functioning on their own. Cross your paws as we wait for his next blood test results!
May 3–Eating like a horse, Courage is up to 60 pounds! He loves to play in water–don’t forget he didn’t have this in his prior home either–and he tries to catch the hose! Some basic behavior training is beginning as he’s a little clueless about life inside a home. Arraignment date still on for May 12 as far as we know.
I’ll keep on eye on legal proceedings and try to update you when significant events happen. And of course, I’ll keep you informed of Courage’s incredible progress.
Further update: Dogster Pogo told us about Courage’s Facebook page, Courage Lives, and a brand-new video of our boy! A big arf to Pogo! The video was on today’s Orange County Register pet blog, along with a terrific article about his progress and a heartwarming slide show. He is one happy dog! Enjoy the video!
