Rosa

Profile

11/2/2013:

On July 16, 2013, my life changed. Me, #72, along with 132 other dogs were rescued from the Pine River puppy mill by law enforcement and the Animal Humane Society (AHS). There were kind people who told me that everything would be OK, life would be better from this day forward when they saw me. The wonderful staff at AHS gave me clean water, good food, and a cool, dry place to lay my head. A doctor helped me feel better by giving me medicine to treat the worms and ear infection that I had. I was very confused and scared as this was NOT my life that I had known. Everyone kept saying that you are safe now, we will take care of you! Days, then weeks passed, and on August 8th, an adorable little girl. She was one of 80 puppies that were born at AHS.

On September 22, 2013, my life changed again for me and my baby girl. RAGOM had the honor and privilege of being asked to take a number of Pine River Golden Retrievers to provide foster care and socialization. My Foster Dad (FD) and Foster Mom (FM) came and picked us up at 3:00 pm. My 5-pound bundle of joy was happy and went right into FM's arms, giving puppy kisses and wagging her little tail. I, on the other hand, did not want to leave. I was scared and unsure of what these “new” people wanted from me …. I was shaking and wouldn’t move; they had to carry me out and into the van. We arrived in Brooklyn Park and the next step in my life’s journey began.

First, FM and FD gave me a name; I was not just a number anymore. They chose Rosa because FM thought I reminded her of her beautiful dark red “Hope for Humanity” rose plant in the garden. She said that this rose was resilient, weathered many storms, and no matter what happens, it still keeps thriving and blooming.

Here are a couple of pictures of me the first few days.

I found out that I had a goofy Newfie for a foster brother (FB) named Maksymilian and now adopted RAGOM brother, Frank (Champ 13-264). I also have 2 small furry things that FD called cats.

Frank (Champ 13-264), Rosa, and FB Maksy out in the yard

I have decided that this life is good – I am starting to smile and be more confident!

On October 10, 2013, my “forever” life, as well as my little girl’s, was decided by the courts. All Pine River dogs and puppies were awarded to the Animal Humane Society. At first, I did not understand why FM was crying and hugging me so tight that I could barely breathe; all I know was that she and FD were happier than I have ever saw them. They kept telling me that the life that I had come to know and love will always be. RAGOM, my Foster Family, Angelita and I want to thank Law Enforcement, the Animal Humane Society, Attorneys and everyone else involved for giving over 200 dogs and puppies a chance to experience life as it should be—with families who love and want you for who you are, not for how many you can give birth to [see Grand Dame Annie’s (13-316) story].

Enjoying the Fall Day with Family
Opa, Maksymilian, FM, and Rosa
Nephew Giovanni, Angelita (my little girl!), and Niece Lucy

November 1, 2013

Well, I have decided that I actually like Halloween. FB Maksy and I stood at the door and greeted all the little and big people who came to get something called candy. I got lots of pets from princesses to ghouls, and Maks was told what a big boy he was. FM and FD said that I was such a good girl and how proud they were that I liked meeting new people!

Foster Mom says that I have come a long way since they brought me home. I have gone from a shy, tentative dog to being a 2-year-old puppy who is experiencing a whole new world that I never knew until now. I don’t know why, but she gets tears in her eyes when she tells me things like that sometimes.

Here are some facts about me :

• I am a purebred Golden Retriever who is a little over 2 years old. I weigh 48 pounds.
• I am up-to-date on all my shots and on heartworm preventative.
• I will be spayed on November 8th and be ready for my new home after that.
• I am a puppy in a two-year-old body.
• I LOVE to play with other dogs and with humans.
• I like to destuff softies and love Kongs and bison chews. We are working on other things that I am not supposed to chew; boy, is that list long!
• I am working on getting into the van and car (I still need to be picked up, but I and not as scared as I used to be).
• I am trying very hard to understand that a leash is not a bad thing.
• I need to be supervised when I have chews – they are highly valued to me and do not want to share. I will give them back to my humans without a problem, but Maksymilian, not so much (another work in progress).
• I do not resource guard my food from either humans or animals.
• I love to give “hugs” to people.
• I know my name and come when called. My foster family is working on other commands with me.
• I am house trained and crate trained, but really do not like going in there (I think that you can understand why).
• I have taken over FB Maksy’s place on the couch. It is soooo comfy! I especially like to be on it when FM or FD sit there to watch TV and give me pets. I am a good snuggler and I love being loved.
• I am good with baths and getting my ears cleaned.
• I get along with cats ( FB Buttons and FB Harley).

This is what I will need in my new home:

• A medium to large 4-legged brother or sister to help me become the best dog I can be.
• A fenced-in yard so that I can run and play.
• A family who has patience and love as I am continuing learn how to be a GReat dog, not just a good one.
• Lots of encouragement, treats, and rewards to overcome things that I am not sure of.

So, if your family wants a Rosa that will continue to grow and bloom throughout the years, I am your girl.
Contact your placement advisor; I would love to meet you!
XXOO
Rosa