Zak's Page

I had a phone call from an old friend on Monday  6th January 2014 asking if I could foster a twelve year old collie, I gave it a bit of thought and wanted to know a few more details, I then agreed, Zak was dropped off to me the next day,the poor dog was totally confused, he had been taken from the home he'd known all his life, separated from his companions [another five dogs and four cats]  stayed at someone's kennels for a couple of days then came to me,  a complete stranger.

He was very sick after his meal, totally emptying his stomach, and a bit the following day. I cut down his meals and soaked the biscuit, it seemed to help him, though I daresay it was also the change of diet and stress,'

He has got a throat problem, one side of his larynx is paralysed, causing him to gasp   for breath mostly when he gets over excited but this has only happened once since I had him, he's been on a course of steroids so hopefully it has helped, His bark is very hoarse, but I do think soaking the biscuit has alleviated the problem.

He is a very nice natured dog, and has been no trouble, in fact it has probably shaken me out of a rather lazy complacent life, as Ruby would sleep all day, and is quite happy to have her walk when it's time  - then back to bed, Zak will urge me to get up he is so much more lively, in fact, he's more like a five year old.

Ruby couldn't care less whether or not he's here, again she just shows no interest, except of course when he comes up for a fuss, then she likes to remind me that she was here first.

Smile down on us Tango, I haven't forgotten or replaced you, as if I could -  you are still and always will be my Little Spesh.,   I miss you so much.
Nor you my Darling Jet, you know that when you went you left a whole as deep and as wide as the ocean.  Till we all meet again.

I have since learned that there is every chance that the owner won't be able to have any of his dogs back so I think he will be here for good, My Family think I'm bonkers.
Since writing this, Zak has settled in very well and is very much a forever has been and will be dog.
He had a nasty bite from an insect or fly on his eyelid a few weeks ago and is still recovering, He also had a mild stroke about three months ago, but he's recovered completely from that, Thankfully, he's a walking disaster, who is now poking my arm to get me out of this chair and off for a walk. [updated 26th Sept 2014]