saving charger
charger's story
a tough beginning
All of the fosters that come through our rescue program have a story and Charger is no different. But what is different about Charger is that he has a story that tells of physical issues in addition to human induced emotional issues. Charger did not have a good start in life. Along with his litter-mates, Charger was surrendered by a breeder to a Nebraska shelter at three months of age. At that point in time, it was obvious to the experienced dog enthusiast why the litter was "dumped". The entire litter had physical issues. It is easy to look back and get riled up about reckless and thoughtless breeding but in the end, it would not do Charger any good. Sadly, all of the pups in the litter were set to be euthanized. Then a young man with a big heart and good intentions adopted Charger without truly understanding his issues - and the Vizsla breed and its needs. All he knew at that moment was that this little red pup with big eyes sitting behind bars needed to be saved. He adopted Charger and then gave the pup to his mother -- the love affair began. Charger grew up in a 3-family household where a family member breeds and raises Pit Bulls. Although this could be an issue having a dog in a home with breeding dogs, much less Pit Bulls, Charger maintained his sweet, Velcro Vizsla core.
Early in May, a neighbor reported to the authorities that there were too many dogs in the household. Because the breeder in the family wanted to continue with the Pit Bull breading, the other dogs in the house had to go. The woman had two dogs. In addition the Charger she had an older dog that was too old and ill to be placed so she made the decision to have him euthanized. Charger escaped going back to a shelter when this very broken-hearted woman called VCNC Rescue looking to save her "best friend" who was only 2 years of age. Team Charger was put into full motion and thanks to some very special people, this 2-year-old Vizsla was whisked off to safety. The excitement and joy of saving a dog's life was soon overshadowed by the sadness of realizing his physical condition. Along with being overweight and needing some lumps investigated, Charger had a funny rear gait which was accompanied by a popping sound. After being X-rayed Charger has been diagnosed with severe genetic bilateral hip dysplasia.
where there's love there are possibilities
Many unknowing people will say there is one quick and simple solution - put Charger out of his misery. He is not the sleek, conformationally sound, high-flying running machine that our club is so accustomed to seeing. I am very proud to say that our club has some very high standards when it comes to maintaining the breed standard. But we in the club aren't drawn to Vizslas just for their beauty. It's the soul-piercing gaze that says, "I understand", their demonstrative affection, amazing intelligence, and loyal companionship that makes them so very special. As just described, Charger is a Vizsla in every sense. At this point in time he absolutely loves life, is very energetic, and doesn't appear to be in too much discomfort because he doesn't know any different.
a happy ending – hopefully
So the rescue group hit a crossroads. We, in our short time with this program, have not had to make such a heart wrenching decision before. We have taken emotionally damaged dogs and were lucky to find the perfect forever home for them. Charger was different - decisions have to be made. Much thought was given the options offered by the doctors and specialists. Do we help Charger be the dog that he should be - a life without pain; or do we consider the cost of providing him with this quality of life and put him out of his pain? After much research and thought, we decided as a team that his chance at a happy quality life was worth fighting for. We are putting our faith in the goodness of people. There is someone out there who doesn't want a show, field, or agility champion but just a loyal and loving companion.
how you can help
So what are his options? There are quite a few actually. From pain management like Rymadil to full hip replacement. We've also learned about a very intriguing option - stem cell treatment. We are looking for help in four different areas:
1 - Donations
First and foremost we desperately need donations for Chargers stem cell transplant. The cost of this procedure is far less than full hip replacements. We do not know how long this treatment will last but we do have good information that it is the most cost effective treatment today for Charger. But we need your help to fund this. By the end of his treatment the cost will be close to $5,000.00 and paying for this out of the rescue savings account will significantly affect what we can do for the next very deserving dog.
We desperately need financial assistance for Charger's treatments, medication and possible surgery so that we do not deplete our rescue fund for other Vizslas in need.
Checks made to:
VCNC Rescue
2063 Main Street, #300
Oakley CA 94561
We gladly accept donations through PayPal as well:
2 - Experience
Suggestions from those who have experienced a similar situation. If there is anyone out there who has dealt with this we would be most grateful to hear from you personally. Understanding what Charger is going through will be helpful. We want to be his best buddy through the entire process and hopefully anticipate his every need. He deserves it.
If you have a dog that went through a similar experience (whether from age or genetics) we would like to hear about what worked and what did not for you. Please contact us at rescue@vcnc.net.
3 - A loving home
UPDATE: A club member has kindly offered to foster Charger through his treatment and until he is in his forever home. She has taken the bull by the horns and is proactively seeing that Charger receives the best treatment, loses the necessary pounds, and gets the love he deserves. Thank you!
We are always in need of fosters and adopters. If you are still interested, please fill out one of the forms below:
> offer to foster
> apply for adoption
4 - Spread the word!
UPDATE: There is someone out there with a heart the size of China! Charger is tentatively scheduled to move into his forever home at the end of summer!
Thank you EVERYONE for your donations and continued support! Charger's story is going to have a happy ending.
The VCNC Rescue Team
rescue@vcnc.net