Rusty

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Sponsored by:

Mr. & Mrs. Chuck Stigen
"In memory of our Golden boy, Nitschke"

Rusty is a 14-year-old, purebred golden retriever and he is, without doubt, one of the gentlest dogs I've ever known. For the last few years, Rusty lived in an assisted living cottage where he provided comfort and companionship for the residents, their families and the staff. However, because he is slowing down, it became increasingly difficult for Rusty to avoid being run over by wheelchair bound residents. So the staff made the difficult decision to surrender Rusty to RAGOM, so that he can live out his golden years in a safer home. We are honored that Rusty has come to live with us and he seems happy to be here! Needless to say, Rusty is great with people of all ages and he gets along just fine with our three resident goldens, the cats, the bird and even the hamster!

Rusty appears to be in excellent health for such a senior gentleman. He is neutered, current on his vaccinations and has been on heartworm/flea and tick preventatives. Like many dogs his age, Rusty does have arthritis and takes Previcox for this. He has trouble with stairs and we worried that he could fall going down the three steps from our deck to the grass. So we set up a ramp and it works pretty well. Rusty uses it to go down and then he walks back up the stairs. Rusty really loves to walk with the pack, so that should help maintain his strength and mobility. He can walk surprisingly far as long as we go very slowly.

We will bring Rusty to the veterinarian for a routine check-up this week, but we don't foresee any problems. I just wish Dr. M. had a time machine so we could turn back the clock a few years for this lovely boy!