The Newfoundland Club Inc, New Zealand
A Happy Ending - A Rehouse Story
*Max*
The heart always beats a little faster when we hear of a Newfoundland who is looking for a new home. The heart SINKS a little when the dog in question is old or elderly. There are not so many willing takers for a dog who may only live for 3-4 years before it is time to let him/her go... But so far, invariably, we have managed to place these Newfs in new homes and invariably also, both new owners and newfs turn out VERY happy indeed.
Recently we were asked to find a home for a Newf, approx 8-9 years old, with a rather "Chequered Career". We'll call him *Max*. All we know is that, some years ago, he was uplifted from a pound and had gone to live with his new owners. Unfortunately, some years later Max's happiness was shattered when, once again, he became "Available to a good home". So he went on to his next owners. He was there for some years and hey presto, the bubble burst again... so sad.
Fortunately we always have prospective owners waiting, and Max went to owner no.4 or 5 who did not mind taking on an oldie. Once again Max tried to get his life together but he was a rather sad looking dog. He had extremely bad and dirty ears, weeping eyes, a massive infection below his chin and down his chest, and toenails at least one inch too long. His coat was also dirty.
A trip to the vet took care of the ears, eyes and infection and a hydrobath took care of the dirty coat. He came and visited us with his new owners, and I was amazed at this old boy's gentle nature. When he came through the gate he was greeted by not one, or two, but THREE newfies (2 of them males) and not a grumble was heard !! Some time later he was peacefully asleep on our dogs' bed - snoring ! It had been an exciting afternoon for him.
And this, believe me, is the beauty of an elderly dog. They've been there, done that. They have become philosophical about life. They roll with the punches. They are so very, very accepting. They make your heart ache when you look in to those cloudy eyes. But, to me, they're absolutely gorgeous.
Since Max has started to feel better, he has changed enormously. He is now so much happier and will greet his new owners at the gate after having been left for a very short time, gently holding on to their clothes (Newfie trait!) or their arm. It's like: "I am so pleased to see you again !" and his tail wags non-stop.
Young newfs are easy to place. But if you ever hear of an oldie, please do not turn away and say "No, too painful to lose them again soon". You may actually be giving them the best years of their life, just like they will give their entire huge heart to you.
Remember this when an old dog needs a home......
Written by Netta Cooper, Rehouse officer, Wellington.
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Max before the big clean
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Max enjoying the attention
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He's a 'kiwi' Newfy, he knows about the
BBQ!
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Max enjoying the attention
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A long day of pampering, good food, and now time for a good snooze
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Max 'watching' dinner
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