Here's the little guy we flew in from Mississippi on Thursday ... blind Creighton, a chocolate Lab puppy only four months old. He's actually a pretty big and lanky boy for his age, but he still has those tiny, sharp baby teeth and is 100% pure puppy. He is as sweet as he looks, too -- he's absolutely adorable.
About two weeks ago, I received an email from a lady named Debbie L. who runs a poodle and small breed rescue group in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Debbie's e-mail had only one line in it. She wrote, "Please can you take this 4 month old puppy?" She was forwarding an email from another lady named Lindsey D. in Vicksburg, and attached were photos of the puppy with a horrendous set of bulging, bloodshot, ulcerated eyes.
The story was simple but sad: A woman said her daughter had bought the AKC-registered puppy for her boyfriend, but didn't know the dog was blind. Daughter and boyfriend broke up, and boyfriend didn't want the puppy. Neither did the daughter. Thus the woman ended up with her daughter's "gift" and didn't want him either. A vet who knew Lindsey had a blind Pug put the woman in touch with her.
Lindsey wasn't involved in rescue but knew Debbie, so she contacted Debbie for help in finding a home for the blind puppy. Hence the email to us.
We took one look at those eyes and thought, oh dear -- this puppy needs medical care in the worst way. I had never seen a dog that young with eyes that looked that bad.
We agreed to take him, and began working with Lindsey on the logistics to get him to Montana. First, we arranged to get the puppy to a vet clinic in Vicksburg and boarded him there to keep him safe until we could fly him out. We sent Lindsey the money for a crate, and paid for Creighton's vet exam and other care at the clinic. I made the flight arrangements with Northwest Airlines to fly him from Jackson, Mississippi to Minneapolis on Wednesday, where he would overnight at a boarding kennel, and then fly on to Great Falls on Thursday. So on Wednesday, Lindsey left work early to pick up Creighton at the clinic and drive him to the airport in Jackson to start his journey to Montana.
Here's a photo I took of Creighton in his crate outside the Great Falls airport:
This is what the sign on the crate said:
At first I couldn't get Creighton out of the crate, so I finally reached in, picked him up and pulled him out. Once Creighton realized he was outside, he suddenly became very excited and bouncy .. and then immediately peed all over my shoes. This was the first of many submissive urinations we've seen over the past few days, in fact. Even though he's excited to be petted and get attention, the moment he realizes we're approaching him, he starts piddling. Once we start petting him, he stops ... but something about being approached triggers it.
Yet he's not at all a fearful, cringing puppy. Quite the opposite. He's happy and cheerful and jumps up and down to greet us, sometimes spinning in a complete 360-degree circle! Being a puppy, he veers from too-much energy to sound-asleep in five minutes. Creighton is sleeping on a bed here in my office as I write this, lying next to Ellie May.
He's clearly a puppy that has had no training or manners taught by either people or other dogs, so his elders in the house are teaching him boundaries and what's acceptable play. The Dachshunds, of course, are teaching him to "@#%&! watch where you put your big feet, you lug!" Even Ellie May told him to mind his manners this afternoon, sounding like a gentle but firm headmistress with a wayward student.
And oh, do those eyes hurt. When he walks into something, he yikes. They definitely look like multiple things have gone wrong, but all I can tell is they're painful. He has untreated old ulcers on each cornea, but they can't explain his blindness by themselves. His eyes bulge like he has glaucoma, but when I took his eye pressures on Friday, I got extremely low readings -- either the Tono-Pen is off, my technique is off, or there is something very weird going on inside those eyes. I'm taking him to see our vet, Brenda Culver, this week.
But bless his little heart, he is such a sweet, happy boy. Creighton wanders around the house with his big eyes, slapping his paws on the floor with that exaggerated gait we often see in young, blind animals. He thrives on all the attention he's getting and on all the activity in the house. Here's a close-up of this handsome youngster ... click on this photo to get a larger image and you'll see more of the damage to his eyes:
And here's another view that will give you a better idea of how his eyes bulge out:
The cost of Creighton's trip, including the overnight boarding fee, was $391.63. The bill for his stay at the vet clinic in Vicksburg was $232.50. And he is worth every penny. Thanks to Lindsey and Debbie in Mississippi for working so hard to save this little guy ... and thanks to all of the sanctuary's generous supporters, whose gifts make it possible for us to take in animals like Creighton. We couldn't do this without you.
All creatures great and small...thank you for doing God's work. Mr. Creighton has found the rainbow's end at RDR.
You've written Creighton's journey well...keep us posted on his progress! I am sure he'll fit right in and will be happy and healthy in no time!
Posted by: Yvette Irene | April 08, 2008 at 08:38 PM
What a heartwarming story....I am so pleased you took Creighton in...is there any kind of transplant they can do with dogs??You people are truly angels that walk this earth...bless you
Posted by: Joanne | April 02, 2008 at 04:59 PM
Again, the two of you amaze me with your tremendous love for animals. Creighton is so very lucky to be with you. Thank you for all that you do!
Posted by: Mia Sciacca | April 02, 2008 at 09:28 AM
Just got back in town after being in Pittsburgh for a week, what a wonderful surprise to see Creighton. He is such a handsome boy. One of my aunts gave me $50.00 when I left Pitsburgh- it's on the way to you for Creighton. Hope it helps!! I'll bet he gives great kisses!!
Posted by: Debbie | April 02, 2008 at 09:23 AM
What a cute pup! The low ocular pressures, sounds like uveitis - maybe infectious? Good luck at the vet!
Posted by: maria | April 01, 2008 at 03:56 PM
What a wonderful addition to your muttley crew! Just seeing those pictures make my eyes smart. Soon he will be fixed up and romping with the others. Hurray for Creighton!
Posted by: Shelli Smith | March 31, 2008 at 08:37 PM
All I can say is thank God for RDR! I can't believe that anyone could have seen how painful his eyes look and not gotten him care sooner. Poor little guy! Thank goodness he'll have a happily ever after ending at RDR with you where he'll get the proper care and lots of love! Welcome you little sweetie and I look forward to hearing that you're feeling better soon!
Posted by: Karen | March 31, 2008 at 07:37 PM
Welcome beautiful Creighton - and thank you Steve and Alayne for taking in this boy - he's in the right place for sure! You guys rock!
PS - watch out for mean doxies Creighton :>
Posted by: Lisa | March 31, 2008 at 03:51 PM
What an absolute doll! I had tears rolling down my face and a huge lump in my throat reading his story. What a sweetheart.
Posted by: Barbara | March 31, 2008 at 11:18 AM
There's a special place in heaven for you folks - and for Creighton!
Posted by: MALCOLM IN VICKSBURG | March 31, 2008 at 11:16 AM
I can't look at him, his eyes look so painful. Please show him with new happy eyes!
Nancy
Posted by: Nancy | March 31, 2008 at 10:57 AM
Wow, talk about degrees of separation: daughter & boyfriend to mother, to the vet, to Lindsey, to Debbie, to RDR.
Posted by: Lisa | March 31, 2008 at 10:37 AM
OMG, he's gorgeous. What a precious baby he is. I"m so glad he's safe now and he'll get the help he deserves. His eyes look so painful. No baby should have to suffer like that.
Posted by: Mary | March 31, 2008 at 09:52 AM
Dear Alayne & Steve, I've just come back from a short trip to north-eastern Italy, so I may be a little late in wishing sweet Creighton a very warm welcome to the RDR!
His eyes do look very painful, don't they?:-( But I'm sure you and your wonderful vets will make him feel much better as soon as possible.
Please give him a HUGE hug for me, won't you?
Posted by: Carla Polastro-Nigro | March 31, 2008 at 09:47 AM
God Bless all of you for the work that you do. These babies are so lucky to have so many caring and loving people. All your stories bring tears to my eyes and I'm always hoping for a happy ending.
Posted by: Annette | March 31, 2008 at 09:37 AM
I was on the verge of the happy tears, and then the note on the crate pushed me way over the edge. It's like the winning power ball lottery ticket for dear Creighton. I see great joy for you all ahead.
Posted by: Margaret | March 31, 2008 at 09:22 AM
Oh! I'm so glad he made it ok. He is such a happy boy! I cried when I read this. I am so happy for him. Thanks again so much for all you have done for this little guy.
Posted by: Lindsey | March 31, 2008 at 08:49 AM
Oh those eyes!!! You poor baby!! RDR will get you fixed up in no time! I'm sure the peeing is from the excitment of knowing someone is there to pet him!! We had a couple of puppies that did that. Can't wait to meet you.
Posted by: Laura | March 31, 2008 at 08:38 AM
I am so glad he is with you guy's at the ranch now! I hope he has not been in too much pain! Good Luck with his Doctor's appointment!
Posted by: Lahna Zandi | March 31, 2008 at 08:36 AM
If there is any time I need a good happy cry all I have to do is read your blog, Steve. Little Creighton can't see he is at Heaven on Earth but I know he already knows it. Thanks again for everything y'all do. Give him sugars for us-- all his new fans.
Posted by: Candace | March 31, 2008 at 08:17 AM
He's darling and I'm sure it's nice to have puppy energy in the house, even if he isn't trained.
I love that the other dogs are teaching him boundaries and he and Ellie May sleep under your desk...it's wonderful that they're getting along so well already!
His eyes do look painful; he's the luckiest...being at home at RDR and getting the best love and care available.
We look forward to seeing him again soon.
Posted by: Boundforglory | March 31, 2008 at 07:54 AM
What a cute lanky lab he is.. Creighton - you've got it made now kid. You will be taken great care of.
Posted by: Jennifer | March 31, 2008 at 06:17 AM
Oh my, what a cute little guy.
I hope all goes well home him.
Good Luck Creighton !
ps. I love the name !
Posted by: Kylie Payeur | March 31, 2008 at 06:11 AM
You guys are so awesome & Creighton is oh so cute!!
Thank you again for all you do.
Posted by: kelli | March 31, 2008 at 05:26 AM
OH MY, those eyes look SO SO painful. Poor Creighton, I cannot imagine how sad and lonely his life would have been up until now.
Well bless him he is in the right place with all at RDR and I know he will be loved, cared for and cherished from now on.
Kae Norman
Rescued With Love
Australia
Posted by: Kae | March 31, 2008 at 04:46 AM
OMG it's cute guy season at the RDR!
Posted by: Lalla and Sasha | March 31, 2008 at 01:25 AM
Oh, he is so cute! I just want to pick him up and cuddle him for as long as he'd let me. My own eyes hurt for him though. Very soon, Creighton will know the happiness and love he deserves! Can you imagine the elation of being pain-free after suffering constant & intense pain since birth? Welcome to your new home, Creighton, where you ARE wanted AND loved by thousands!
Posted by: Amy | March 31, 2008 at 01:22 AM
Owww! Hello Creighton and welcome at doggie paradise. What a lovely coat you have. Soon you will be pain free and can spend your days running around and playing with all your new friends - and the world will never be scary again. Steve, how about a photo of Creighton with some of the smaller members of the house gang (doxies, etc.) now and in a year's time? He's got some big feet to grow into! Thank you to everyone for all you did (and do) to save special ones like these. God bless you.
PS While you are wishing for spring to arrive, down here we are very happy that the nights are finally cooling down and the days are getting shorter. Winter's coming!!
Posted by: bregda,south africa | March 31, 2008 at 12:51 AM
What an uber cute boy!
Posted by: yoonamaniac | March 30, 2008 at 11:33 PM
That Creighton is one charming little fella. What a scary plane ride it must have been for him, especially bc he had no way of seeing what was going on around him. I recently adopted an 11 month (now 15 month) old boxer/pit puppy and brought him home to MA from school in OK. Apparently Sebastian was not a happy camper when he was out of sight of the workers; they said he was squealing away unless they positioned his crate just so! I am so glad that Creighton is going to be able to truly start his puppyhood now - we have found that our 15 month old is just a baby bc he spent his first year of life in a cage w little social interaction. Creighton (and Sebby) must think think they are two lucky little buddies - esp once you get Creighton's eyes a little less sore!! Thank you so much for taking him in.
Posted by: maggie | March 30, 2008 at 11:30 PM
What a beautiful puppy! Hopefully something can be done about his eyes or if not, I'm sure he can be at least made comfortable. He is one lucky pooch to be able to get to the RDR. May God bless everyone who took part in his rescue.
Posted by: Julie | March 30, 2008 at 10:32 PM
Creighton welcome to the Royal Castle where you will be treated like the Princes you are...thank you Steve and Alayne for saving yet another one of God's precious creatures! I'm so grateful you founded RDR and the excellent work you do on behalf of these lovely dogs, horses and cats!!!
Posted by: Shirley & James, Portland, OR | March 30, 2008 at 09:07 PM
How adorable is he!!!! Thanks so much for all the work you do!!!
Posted by: Michelle | March 30, 2008 at 08:16 PM
What a sweet, sweet puppy! Ow, makes my eyes hurt tho; didn't want to see them any closer by clicking on photo. Hope he gets over his "submissiveness" soon, or we'll have to start a "new shoes for Steve" fund. Have you told the doxies just how big he is going to be?!! Ha! Ha! They're in for a surprise!
Posted by: Susie from LA | March 30, 2008 at 07:55 PM
Oh, Steve, he is absolutely precious. I do hope that the pain in his eyes can be alleviated quickly. He is such a sweet boy. You can just see the exburerance, even if his eyes are bad. Welcome to RDR, Crieghton. You will begin to know what it's like to be a puppy and to be loved at you should be. I'll look forward to updates on you.
Posted by: Sonya Brooks | March 30, 2008 at 07:32 PM
What a beautiful addition to the crowd. Looking forward to the vet visit so you can get those eyes taken care of. Ain't no fun when you're young, cute and in pain from bad peepers.
Posted by: Karen | March 30, 2008 at 07:30 PM
What a precious boy! Welcome to the ranch, Creighton!
Posted by: Nina | March 30, 2008 at 07:15 PM
Welcome Creighton, or should we just call you heartbreaker? :)
*ponders the logistics of adopting from such a great distance*
Posted by: Andrew, NZ | March 30, 2008 at 07:14 PM
I promised myself I would not have another 'favorite' at RDR ( too many favorites!) but Creighton has stolen my heart in a huge way.........I wish my donation towards his care had a few extra zero's attached ........Sweet boy, you ar SO adorable :) Welcome to the loving arms of Alayne and Steve !!
Posted by: Bibi | March 30, 2008 at 07:11 PM
Oh, a chocolate lab! Who doesn't love a chocolate lab? He's so beautiful! Welcome, Creighton. You're in good hands :)
Posted by: Kristen D. | March 30, 2008 at 06:36 PM
Oh my goodness - his poor eyes! Thank goodness he's going to be with you all - and be schooled by the Dachsunds. :)
Posted by: artemis | March 30, 2008 at 05:27 PM
Creighton is adorable! I am hopeful Dr. Culver can ease his pain and he can grow up to be a happy, pain-free handsome dog. I plan to make a donation to offset his expenses thus far. Thank you for saving this beautiful boy.
Posted by: Kristin | March 30, 2008 at 04:44 PM