Another Blind and Deaf Gabe

He's not at the ranch yet, but he will be our first new arrival in New Hampshire!  A longtime supporter of the sanctuary, Barb W. from Pennsylvania, contacted us a week ago about a blind and deaf Cocker Spaniel who was in a local shelter near her.  He had been found as a stray, wandering in the woods.  The shelter's director had told Barb no one had even looked at the dog in the two months he'd been there, and they would be thrilled if he could come to the sanctuary.  Barb knew we were in the middle of the move and had our hands full, so she offered to foster the dog -- named Gabe, like our other blind and deaf boy -- until we could make it to New Hampshire and get settled.  We agreed to take him, and Barb immediately went to the shelter and picked him up. 

Not only that, Barb has already taken him to her vet to get an initial work-up and this past Friday, she took him to a veterinary ophthalmologist for an eye exam.  I was in the tractor in the hay barn Friday afternoon, moving hay to the horses, when the phone rang.  It was Barb, calling from the ophthalmologist's office so he could give me a run-down on his findings.  Essentially, Gabe's right eye is non-functional and shrunken -- the technical term is phthisical -- from undetermined prior disease. 

His left eye is also non-functional but mildly enlarged, or buphthalmic.  (What's up with all the "phth" business in this field of medicine?)  I had noticed this in the photo the shelter had taken of Gabe, which is why I had asked Barb if she could find an ophthalmologist to do an exam.  I was worried about glaucoma, and if that was the case, I didn't want him going untreated until he got to New Hampshire.  It turns out his eye pressure in that eye was very low, despite the appearance.  But there is quite a bit of blood inside the eye, which could be causing the enlargement of the globe.  He also has an old corneal lesion, or wound, as well.  The ophthalmologist told me that there are five different possible scenarios to explain what happened to that eye:  1) primary glaucoma with secondary retinal detachment (causing the bleeding); 2) uveitis which then caused glaucoma and thus the retinal detachment; 3) a bleeding disorder of some sort; 4) a tumor in the eye, which will require follow-up ultrasound to determine (there was too much blood in the eye for him to see all the way through); and 5) trauma of some sort.

Amazingly, the ophthalmologist said that both of Gabe's eyes currently appear comfortable, though he did need some antibiotics for the corneal lesion.

Barb is having additional tests done, including for heartworms, which will determine how much more we can do in the meantime.  If he's heartworm positive, we'll have to hold off on any surgery until we can get him treated for that.

For now, though, Gabe is safe and sound with Barb and her husband Jerry.  Barb reports that "Gabe is 'mapping' the house and cuddling at night with us.  He loves to find you on the floor and curl right up to you."

Thank you, Barb and Jerry!

--

Some folks have asked us how the move is going.  We are, in a word, swamped.  We've been shipping trailer-loads of equipment and supplies for the past month -- every week another shipment leaves for New Hampshire.  We have two different couples hauling for us ... one couple is from New York State and they have a pick-up and flatbed trailer, and the other is from Avon, Montana, and they have a semi and flatbed.  The tricky thing was that we needed people who would be able and willing to unload for us at the other end, since we aren't there.  That meant being able to use one of our tractors, which we shipped in an early load, for that purpose.  Fortunately, both couples who are doing the hauling are farm and ranch types who are comfortable operating tractors.  Most truck drivers and people who haul for a living won't touch the cargo -- it's your responsibility to unload it.  So this was a key requirement for us.

An enclosed cargo van arrives at the end of this week, for the stuff that can't be shipped on flatbeds.  The freight company will leave it here for several days so we can load it, then they'll hold it in storage for us in Helena until we are in New Hampshire and ready to receive it. 

We've also been working with our small and large animal vets on all the paperwork required to transport the animals, so everything's ready in time.

I am leaving for New Hampshire on May 17th and taking about six of the dogs with me.  I need to be there and make sure we're up and running before the rest of the animals arrive.  Most of the dogs and cats are being picked up on May 24th by the professional pet transportation company.  The first trailer load of blind horses will leave that week as well, and the rest will go in additional loads the following week.  Alayne will have her hands full!  She will stay behind here for a couple of weeks to finish up, ship out the rest of whatever we have left, and then drive out with a few of the remaining dogs (Goldie, Widget, etc.). 

Comments

[Linda]

Hello,
I read in a local newspaper about your move here to New Hampshire and I am so excited that you have chosen our wonderful state to call your next home. Since I have always been an advocate for "special needs" animals, I am so anxious to have your sanctuary here and so close by. I would love to volunteer some of my time to help you out. Please feel free to contact me. I also know of another person interested in volunteering her time also.

[Jane]

Barb, you have a heart of gold and thanks you for taking care of this little Cocker. We need more folks like you. I, like you, see the shelter dogs that everyone else passes by. They are the best ones!! What comfort he must find in your care.

I am sorry that this Gabe will not have the Montana experience but I know he will find RDR (NH) to be a fine home. I can just see his stubby Cocker tail wagging. RDR to the rescue again. Cheers...

[Maree in NZ]

Oh isn't new Gabe just a doll! can't wait to hear stories about him!

Best wishes for the move, I hop eit all goes smoothly!

[Lynne Parker]

You can't have two Gabes! How about renaming your first NH dog Montana?

[Ann]

Gabe is one handsome boy and so lucky to have such wonderful people fostering him until he becomes the first New Hamshire rolling dog!

Glad the move is going well. It's hard to move from one side of the country to another but it seems that you all have the logistics down pat. Good luck!

[Colleen & Sweet Kitty Erin]

New Gabe is such a sweet looking handsome boy!! I find it utterly amazing that no one even gave him a 2nd look. Poor little angel! But, he has an angel in Barb & also in you that he will soon be in the new home & make lots of new friends. Goodness that move sounds stressful & tiring. I admire all that you are doing for yourselves & the animals. I can't believe what an undertaking it is to make such a huge move across country like that. I had to move 1 cat 5 hours in the same state & I was a nervous wreck. She was not nearly as stressed out as I was worrying about her. Good luck to all of you & all the animals too!

[Bridget]

I wish I had the time to lend you a hand in getting packed up, loaded, moved, and then unloaded and set up. It's a lot of work just for a regular household! The new Gabe is a doll.

[Dawn]

We send our best wishes for a smooth move - and welcome to new Gabe.

[Suzanne Babbitt]

Welcome the new addition.
Holy Cow you have your hands full. I only moved one household three states away and was stressed. I can't even imagine what your move is like. Be safe on the roads.

[Dee in KY]

Gabe is a handsome boy. Barb & Jerry are taking good care of him. Makes me sad to think that anyone could do that to him. What a wonderful break for him that he was found and is now warm and cuddling. He will be happy in his new home. Thanks Steve and Alyne for providing his new home as he will be loved there.

Am hoping the move will be safe for all of you.

[Alisa]

Barb and Jerry...how are you going to be able to give up that adorable little Gabe when RDR finally gets to town?! I don't think I'd be able to! Please give him extra love and hugs from WA state.

[Shirley * James/Portland, OR]

I have a feeling Barb and Jerry might end up being Foster flunkies--if you know what I mean. Gable looks so warm and cozy!

God Speed with the move!

[JC]

I bet Gabe is going to get adopted before it's time for him to move - I certainly wouldn't let a snuggly cutie like him go!

[Penny Henirich]

Just heartbreaking that he was wondering alone out there in the outdoors. But heartwarming that he has found a good place to hang his hat (if dogs wear hats) at RDR.

[Lynda]

What a handsome fellow. He is lucky to have RDR and his foster parents.
Thanks so much for the update. I was wondering how it was going. My hat off to the two of you. You both must be exhausted. Praying for safe trips and continued blessing on the move.

[Doe George]

Welcome Gabe II
Thank You Barb & Jerry for take in Gabe and caring for his every need! Steve and Alayne, as alway's you are true Angels! I was tired just reading all of the future plans on the docket!!!
Praying for a saf, uneventful journey for all of you!

[Aliza]

Awww, he's adorable! Are you going to rename him? He doesn't look like a Gabe to me...maybe another renaming contest?

It sounds like things are going as well as can be expected with the move. It's a huge thing to take on, and it sounds like you guys are doing great. Keep it up!

[Kelly]

How do you determine what to ship and what you need to keep in MT to run the ranch until Alayne leaves??? What a logistical nightmare! Good luck to you both.

[Jolene]

that poor baby wandering in the woods, imagine how frightened he must have been!...thank god for people like you & Barb!

[Lynn (in Louisiana)]

I simply cannot understand how a blind and deaf Cocker Spaniel, found lost in the woods, is not reclaimed by his owner. How is that possible???
Thank you shelter for not euthanizing Gabe; thank you Barb and Jerry for rescuing and fostering Gabe and of course, thank you Steve and Alayne!! Isn't it sad that no one even looked at this beautiful dog for two months?? Sad for Gabe as well for all those people who would not consider a dog with handicaps. I think those people are missing an opportunity, but then y'all know that uh?
I enjoyed reading your update on the move. Whew! I've been thinking about the animals and wondering what they'll all be thinking. At least they won't be alone on the trip. Don't forget that I've got St Francis on alert!!

[Jo]

I am exhausted just reading about what has gone before and is yet to come for you in this move. A truly monumental project, but so worth it in the end.

I know that Gabe-Too, will be a wonderful addition to your family.

I laughed to read that Widget will be among the last to leave the ranch with Alayne...of course! She could not manage without her faithful minion giving her support! ;D

[Angela]

Thank you Barb and Jerry for helping this precious little Angel, Gabe. And Steve it sounds like your moving is so well organized! - and going smoothly. If you and Alayne take a day at a time I think you'll continue to do fine with your big move!!

[Chloe]

Welcome Gabe. Can't wait to see you rolling at the Ranch!!

Thank you to all who are helping with the move. It's a big one for sure, but I know how organized you guys are. Best wishes for a smooth trip to all!!

[Suzanne]

God bless you Barb and Jerry! He looks to be such a sweet heart! There will be a special place in Heaven for people like you.
Steve and Alayne, you must be exhausted physically and mentally! I pray for you every night. You two are angels,taking care of angels. You too will have a special place in Heaven! I am sure it will be close to the Rainbow Bridge, for all those that have past to greet you and thank you for all that you have done!

[ginger]

Thank you Barb & Jerry for fostering this sweet boy until the RDR gets set up in N.H.! That's so generous & kind of you. Sounds like Gabe appreciates your kindness as well.
Steve, wish I could help you & Alayne in some way, but I can't even take care of what I have going on here. The best I can do is send you positive thoughts & good vibes for safety, ease, rest when you need it & whatever else you may need along the way. It sounds like you've got everything covered. I know that this is going to be a huge task, but once you have it done, you will be glad that you did it. (Especially around fire season.)
Sending all big hugs,
ginger, Tobias & Tlingit

[Linda]

Hooray for the new Gabe! What a handsome fellow he is. And a very lucky one, too! Cheers to Barb and Jerry for making this happen and taking him under their wing.

I can't even imagine the logistics of moving the ranch to New Hampshire, and I am in awe of Alayne for handling things herself in Steve's absence. I wish I could help, but all I can do is give you my respect and admiration (for this and so many other things!) and cheer you on from Nevada.

I need to ask, though. You've found good vets in New Hampshire that are up to the task? I know the answer is "yes" but I don't think you've mention the veterinary aspect before...

[Eric]

WELCOME HOME GABE
The first offical Yankee Rollin Dog. The kewl thing is that Gabe will get to smell the new smells right along with all the others and their first time sniffing the new digs.

[boundforglory]

A happy ending for Gabe; a new, loving home at RDR!
Thanks for fostering and caring for Gabe's medical needs Barb and Jerry...you are awesome!

Sounds like the move is going well; busy of course but falling into place.

[Jessica, NL]

Such a handsome boy! And loving to cuddle, he must have been so lonely at the shelter (but very happy to have made it alive for two months too). Great work Barb, and I can't wait for pictures of him under the big tree in the yard ;-).

Thank you for the update on the move, I have been thinking about you guys at lot... Good luck with everything!

[Ev]

One can only imagine how relieved Gabe is to be in a safe a loving home. Barb and Jerry, you are saints.

[Ev]

Whew!! Hang in there. You seem to have things well planned.

[Carla Polastro-Nigro]

Looks like there's another couple of angels here on earth (I'm talking about Barb & Jerry, of course)! God bless them!

And thank you so much, Steve & Alayne, for taking Gabe under your (loving) wings.

After reading about your move to New Hampshire, I'll never complain again about my far less complicated move from Genoa to Piedmont, back in 1993...;-)

Bon courage, as they say in French.

[Leila - Washington]

What a sweet little boy, who is blessed to have people to love on him!

You are all in our hearts, thoughts and prayers for the move. May it be as stress-free as possible!

[Gena]

Geez, I'm tired just reading what all you've been doing.... you must fall into bed each night and be asleep within seconds.....

Hugs for Gabe!!!

[Jeanne]

What a handsome new fellow for your new home! Good luck with all the logistics involved!