A very old stray {The Old Fella Story}

[Dixie_Flyer]

Went camping this weekend at a campground on the lake, had not been there for a few years. Once there I began to walk around looking at the different sites when I noticed a very old dog. He just lay there until I got too close then he got up on three legs and hobbled away. Just judging I would say he is at least 11 years old. Well back to my story. The next afternoon he wanders into camp and just sits there looking. He looked so sad, so the wife got a bowl of our dog's food and put it down for him and he came over and ate. He then walked over to our dog and the two of them sniffed each other over and then they lay down together for the rest of the afternoon. That night he disappeared.
The next morning he was back and was a little more receptive of me. I looked at his injured leg and found that half of his rear foot was gone. It had healed and was not causing any problem except that he was walking on the stub that was left with no foot pad which causes him to limp. His front teeth were gone except for one canine tooth and it looked decayed. His eyes were tired looking and showing his age. He spent the rest of the day just laying around looking for a handout and by afternoon the campground host came around and saw him. I enquired about the dog and was told he had been there for three years and that most of the campers were tolerant of him and gave him food.
So what to do? Do you pick him up and bring him home or do you let nature take it course. He can't harm anyone, he has no teeth and he isn't a nuisance unless you don't like dogs, and no one seems to mind him being there. He is gentle and likes other animals as seen by his interaction with our dog. He still would not let me touch him but he would eat from my hand. Enough said, what would you do???

On June 28th 2008 Old Fella passed away of complications caused by bone cancer. Fella spent almost three years with his new family and became the icon of rescued old stray dogs. He will be greatly missed but his foot prints have been left in our hearts forever.

Now Charlie, the ten year old rescued Golden Lab has come to be a part of the continuing Old Fella story. (*Note, Charlie took his journey to Rainbow Bridge unexpectedly September 30, 2008)Suzie continues to charm her way into our hearts with her antics as she has grown from a puppy into a young lady. Togther they will carry on the Old Fella legacy. Come join us in their daily lives and be a part of the best feel good thread in RV.NET history. The legacy lives on.


HIghways Article Puppy Love

Old Fella Burke County Animal Rescue

[joelbaker]

Well...Sometimes even the best intentions don't work, and then something else comes along that works even better. Little Angel had a myriad of medical and behavioral issues that made her unsuitable for our family. We had to return her to rescue. But we were able to save another beautiful pup, whom we have named Rocky. A 1 yr old Yorkie, he and 35 of his best friends were rescued from an Arkansas puppy mill in March by the same rescue group. He turned a year old at the beginning of May and is a real sweetheart. His energy fits right in with the rest of our menagerie. He has a recessive gene which gives him short gray hair on his back, but regular Yorkie hair everywhere else. I wanted to name him "Mullet" but he's Bonnie's dog and she likes 'Rocky'. (So do I). He is a total sweetheart as you can see. Just have to teach him walk on a leash and not poop in the house and he'll be perfect!

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[Dixie_Flyer]

Sunset over a lake is a beautiful sight as the evening turns into darkness and the stars come out of their hiding place and position themselves in the sky. Each one hung with care to give its light as a beacon in the night. The secrete of the stars is simple, alone the darkness drowns out the light, but a thousand stars shinning at once overcomes the darkness and lends its light for the traveler to find comfort and guidance. Together as a family we are strong, and our light overcomes the darkness and in our strength we are able to help others as we lose concern for ourselves and take on the concern for others. True love is a love that knows no boundaries and is filled with unmerited grace and forgiveness. It’s easy to love those who love us, but it is more difficult to love those who don’t love us. Just as the stars light up the night the compassion we have for God’s creatures is a reflection of our inner being that shines out and makes this a better place to live. May our light so shine that it covers all the darkness and brings hope to those who have no hope and love to those who have no one to love. Tonight there are those who need comforting, there are those who need to know there is love. The God of all grace give me the strength to reach out and comfort those who are less fortunate than I. and the grace to love even those who don’t understand what real love is all about. It is my wish that all suffering come to an end and joy replace sorrow and that my life when it is over says to all, he loved others more than himself. With that thought Dad closed his book, reached down hugged Old Fella and Suzie, embraced Sue and retired for the night.

Continued:

[W7SFO]

After talking it over with Richard (via PM) and having a full day to think it over I have come full circle. The benefits to Richards efforts and rescues in general far outweigh myself being upset or offended. So we will be doing a follow up story with the local NBC station. After Anna gets a chance to settle in some.

Seems we were not photogenic enough for the local talk show on the ABC station so we won't be doing that.

[Dixie_Flyer]

Old Fella kept an eye on Dad as he seemed to be preoccupied with many things other than family. Fella knew Dad was still upset over the puppies and would not let it go until something was done. Finally in the late afternoon Dad was able to reach one of the workers who agreed to go check on them and report back just how bad the situation was. You could tell the relief that came over Dad as he sat back and waited for the news good or bad. In the mean time the day was winding down and all the kids were getting tired but not wanting to stop for one minute. It’s as if they were machine driven robots that would run as long as the power switch was on. Dad could remember those days of youth and the good times he had as a kid swimming in the creek down by the house, or hiking through the woods searching for adventure.

With those thoughts he turned to Old Fella and began to think of what life must have been like for him as a youngster with his inquisitive, searching mind that was taking in all the information and storing it for future use. It was hard to imagine Fella playing as a puppy for all Dad had known of Fella was a regal old man that had come into the family and stolen everyone’s heart with his gentle methodical ways. Yet there were times when Fella would break out in a playful romp around the back yard with Suzie. Then the times when Fella would lay on the floor and slap with his front paw indicating to Dad that he wanted some attention and play time. Fella’s playful bark and child like look when he really wants something will always be burned into Dad’ heart.

Then Dad thought of entertaining angels unawares and wondered if Fella just might be some angelic host disguised as a dog come to visit for a while to teach us how to live in love and peace with each other. Dad looked at the gleam in Fella’s eyes and said, “If only you could talk.”

[Dixie_Flyer]

That night the families got together for a campfire session and some food. There were a lot of fun things going on but from Suzie’s stand point she was bored and wanted to be outside instead of being locked up in the camper with Levi and Fella while the human folks were enjoying themselves. Suzie could hear the talk and laughter and wanted to be included. Fella turned to Suzie and said, “You have to learn girl. You can have your fun tomorrow with Abby and the gang, but tonight it’s the humans turn.” That didn’t make Suzie feel any better about being inside but as long as Fella and Levi were okay with it, well she would be also.

This next morning Suzie was awake with the sun rise and wanted to be outside. “Woof, woof” she said. “Its time to get going”. Soon Mom was up and let Suzie out of her kennel. Suzie sprang to her feet and ran just as fast as she could to the bedroom where Dad was still in bed. Leaping up on the bed she started pulling the cover off Dad. This was always a fun time for her and a way to show how much she loved the old man. Suzie wanted him up and out so she could have some time with him. Dad got to his feet and dressed for the outside and walked to the door and stepped outside. Suzie was the first out then followed Levi and Fella. Dad put their leashes on and took them for a short stroll down the road before coming back and preparing breakfast for them. Suzie would always wait inside her kennel for her food and not come out until finished. Fella and Levi were allowed to eat in the kitchen, but Suzie was satisfied with the arrangements and didn’t mind a bit.

Soon Mom and Dad were ready to go outside and walk around the campground. New territory was always exciting for Fella as he stuck his nose to the ground and sniffed every inch of the walk. Suzie was also sniffing her way along in hopes of finding some treasure that had been left behind to chew on. Levi, well Levi was content to just walk and look at the scenery, didn’t much matter to him what was on the ground, he wasn’t no trash dog, no sir not him. If it was laying on the ground, well that was where it was suppose to be. No sense in making a fuss over something that someone had tossed away. He walked with his head held high, back straight, smile on his face saying to the world, “Yep, It’s me folks, take notice. I am walking with my family and nothing else matters.”

Finally Dad broke the silence over what had been bothering him since last night. “Sue he said, I can’t get those puppies off my mind and there is nothing I can do unless I go back to Waynesboro and help.” That’s 140 miles away’, Sue replied, “and what can you do when you get there. Dr. Jim’s office is closed for the weekend and it will be Monday before you can get any help for them and besides it sounds as if it’s too late anyway.” I can’t stand the thoughts of those little puppies suffering through another day, something has to be done right away,” Dad said. Nature is cruel sometimes Richard, and you have to accept that.” Mom said. “Listen, call one of the workers and see if they can go and do something.” I just hate to ask someone else to go and do this.” Dad said. “You do what you think is best.” Mom said and walked away. Back at the camper Dad called several people on the cell phone without getting an answer so he resolved there was nothing to be done until he got back home.

The rest of the day was spent with everyone having a good time and enjoying the boat and the Jet Ski. The kids especially enjoyed themselves being towed around the lake laughing and swimming in the sun. But nothing would satisfy the old man as he thought of things happening back home.

[W7SFO]

Richard & myself have been contacted by KOMO TV in Seattle. They are an ABC station. They asked if we would be interested in bringing Anna to the station and be on a local talk show.

The details have yet to be worked out. However I doubt it will happen before sometime in June or early July. I want Anna to have a chance to get used to us and her new home before we do something like that.

Anna is already signed up for classes @ Positive Approach Dog Training in Tacoma,WA. This is where the wife took Misty Jo, our youngest for her training. It has worked out very good for her, and I expect Anna will do well there also.

[chemisd]

awwww, I hope those little ones will be ok. That poor mother dog. It might be a case where God will intervene as he sees fit.

On the other hand, it sounds like everyone was having a great time camping. I'm sure you love having your daughter come along.

[Dixie_Flyer]

Old Fella watched as Mom and Dad started packing the camper for a weekend camping trip. Suzie didn’t have a clue as to what was going on as she hadn’t yet picked up on the signs. Old Fella turned to Suzie and said, “Best get ready. Mom and Dad are going camping and that means we get to go with them.” This trip would be to a different campground none of the family had been to before. Just after lunch Dad said “Okay lets load up.” That meant for all the fur kids to load up in the truck. The back door opened and Levi, Old Fella and Suzie ran for the truck and climbed in. Mom and Dad were soon ready, the truck engine started and moved out on the street headed for the highway.

This campground was above Hartwell, Georgia on the South Carolina side of the lake. It was called Springfield, a Corps of Engineer campground. The trip took several hours as Suzie lay on the back seat of the truck in a small corner while Fella took up much of the back seat. Levi rested on the floor and didn’t complain at all as he was happy just to be going somewhere. Ava, Travis and Austin were coming as well as Oscar and Maria with their son and daughter and their two fur babies. Ava, if you remember is one of the twin daughters that live in Greenville, South Carolina. She and her husband just bought a new camper back in April so they have the camping fever all the time now. Oscar and Maria are neighbors who bought Ava’s old camper, so they are new to camping and really enjoy being outdoors.

After three hours the truck rolled into the campground and Dad parked the camper on the assigned site. It was a beautiful site overlooking the lake and enough room for the fur gang really romp and play with easy access to the water. Soon everything was set and it was time for a walk about the park to see the different campers and sites. Dad always liked to look at the sites and mark them on the map so when he came back he would know the best campsites to reserve. Much to his surprise there wasn’t a bad campsite on the loop they were on so it really didn’t matter which site you got they were all good.

Once back at the camper the cell phone rang. It was a very distraught lady, she was in tears as she tried to talk. Dad listened sadly to her situation and told her he was out of town and he could do nothing until Monday. Dad suggested she call Dr. Jim in Waynesboro to see if he could help. When Dad finished the call he looked at mom and told her the sad story of seven little week old puppies that were very sick. If the lady couldn’t get in touch with Dr. Jim it would have to wait until Monday. The puppies mother had died and had gone undetected for several days as she lay under a house. It appeared the people who lived there had moved and left the mother dog to starve. By the time it was discovered the puppies were in a very bad way. Being it was the weekend it would be difficult to find anyone at home so Dad suggested that the lady take the puppies and clean them as best she could and bottle feed them until help could be found. Giving her several phone numbers to call Dad had done all he could for now.

Soon Ava and the family came in with Oscar and Maria and all the fur kids got to play in the water. Suzie was hesitant at first but soon she was having the time of her life. Abby, her cousin is a young Boxer that loves to run and play and before you knew it they were both swimming in the lake and chasing each other all under Dad’s supervision. Soon it was time for the tie ropes to come out for each of the dogs to be staked out at their respective campers. Suzie didn’t much care for the rope, but she tolerated it with grace. But Old Fella could tell that Dad was troubled and his mind was some where else.

Continued:

[Dandy_Dan]

Congrats on the new furbaby. Anna I is coming along fairly well. We let her loose in the house when we go away and for the most part she is good. Every now and again we will come home and find shoes in the front room and kitchen along with the bones and chew toys. Normally the shoes are just laying there and not chewed on.I think is may be Anna wants the smell of us around when we are not. She is getting a lot better about staying around the barn while we feed and let out the horses in the morning. This morning she did take off after a bird and shot out into the bean field along side of us going out around a hundred yards chasing the bird. She did come back when I called her. with the area we fenced in for her and Beau, both are enjoying the afternoon shade out in the yard.
Continued success with the OF Rescue effort across the country and it sounds good to think about a memorial for Bill. Dixie, say hi to OF and Levi and Suzie from Anna I and we are looking forward to seeing you in mid June.

[bonniesoo]

What a doll!!!! Congrats on your new furbaby....

[Dixie_Flyer]

joelbaker wrote:
Well thanks to Richard and all of you we made the decision to rescue, and now we have added Angel to our menagerie. Now we have 3 dogs, one is rescued; 2 cats and 2 rabbits, all rescued, and 2 hamsters, one of which is the offspring of a rescue. Here's our latest, Angel:

The spirit of OLd Fella has once again reached out and touched.

[CindyNRoger]

What a cutie! CONGRATS on the newest addition to your family.

[Dixie_Flyer]

joelbaker wrote:
Well thanks to Richard and all of you we made the decision to rescue, and now we have added Angel to our menagerie. Now we have 3 dogs, one is rescued; 2 cats and 2 rabbits, all rescued, and 2 hamsters, one of which is the offspring of a rescue. Here's our latest, Angel:

Thank you for your spirit of kindness and giving a rescue a second chance at life. May you and Angel always have the best of times and Old Fella has once again been rewarded.

[Caseydon]

Congratulations! She is a little doll!

[joelbaker]

Well thanks to Richard and all of you we made the decision to rescue, and now we have added Angel to our menagerie. Now we have 3 dogs, one is rescued; 2 cats and 2 rabbits, all rescued, and 2 hamsters, one of which is the offspring of a rescue. Here's our latest, Angel: