Little Bailey, a miniature Dachshund, arrived today to get a new start in life. He came from an animal hoarder case in Great Falls, which you can read about here. The Deputy County Attorney had called us about Bailey several weeks ago, and we had agreed to take him if no one else came forward to adopt him.
The hoarder's dogs had been moved to the fairgrounds, where they were cared for by the local Humane Society and volunteers. One of the sanctuary's friends and supporters, Christian C., became the "camp coordinator" responsible for the operation at the fairgrounds, and she brought Bailey out to the ranch this afternoon. The first photo shows Christian and Bailey soon after they arrived.
Bailey has an old back injury which apparently was never treated, leaving him to wobble on his rear legs and drag them quite a bit. His upper back looks normal, but about halfway down all of a sudden the vertebrae stick up, leaving his lower spine sharp and bony. However, he is amazingly mobile, as we discovered after we put him outside to pee. At first he struggled for a minute in the fresh snow with his back legs, then he found his footing, and off he went down the drive! I had to dash after him to scoop him up.
Fortunately he does not need a wheelchair to get around. We are, of course, going to get him a complete medical exam to find out what is going on with his spine and back legs.
The second photo shows Bailey in our living room, where he was anxiously awaiting dinner!
(Click on photos for larger image.)
How wonderful to have Bailey as a new addition. He should fit right in with the other short legs. That would be amazing if you could do something to help him walk better too. Kisses and hugs Bailey
Posted by: Mandy, Laramie, WY | February 07, 2006 at 06:25 PM
What a cute face, especially perked up ready for dinner. Nothing more fun than dogs, happy to eat!
Posted by: Karen SA/TX | February 06, 2006 at 07:47 PM
Welcome to the ranch, Bailey. Now you'll have everything you need and lots of love.
Posted by: Roz | February 05, 2006 at 10:36 AM
Welcome Bailey, for you have arrived at a wonderful place. (sounds like you've already picked up on that fact). Sorry to hear you've had some hard times, but those are behind you now. We are sending you welcome to the 'Ranch hugs!
Posted by: ginger & Tobias (the greythound) | February 05, 2006 at 12:32 AM
Welcome home little Bailey! You look like you'll fit in just fine!
Posted by: Julie | February 04, 2006 at 11:01 PM