Cristal Is Safe
This summer has been a busy summer for California GSP Rescue. The dogs that were so popular during lock down a year ago are now, well, in the way. The shelters are filling up and reaching out for help. When we received a text message and photo to the phone of the rescue coordinator, the rescue coordinator made sure to read the text message. The image was of a young cute GSP Mix dog - enough GSP that prompted a reply.
The shelter was concerned because the young dog had tremors and was trembling. A video was later shared showing the pup shaking. Was the pup scared, cold, or something else? The shelter wanted her to be taken to a Vet to make sure it wasn't anything more. We examined the video and photo and knew we couldn't refuse to help. But there was more work to be done before we could commit to rescuing this GSP Mix.
We contacted Volunteer David to see if he could drive to the shelter and then bring her to The Rescue. Other arrangements would need to be made, delaying the little dog exiting from the shelter if David couldn't. As a rule of thumb, animal shelters want the dogs out as quickly as possible to make room for the other dogs that are coming in. A delay isn't what the shelter wanted to hear. Fortunately, Volunteer David was able to free up his schedule the following morning, and would be able to make the pickup and transport.
Once Volunteer David committed to helping, California Rescue Coordinator contacted the adoption coordinator at the shelter to let them know David would be the transporter. Everything was in place to save this pup.
The following day, David made his way to the shelter and got the pup. Arriving to meet Volunteer Greg at The Rescue, they noticed something more than just the tremors. The young GSP Mix, now called Cristal, was a little smaller and appeared to lack coordination in her hindquarters. She had a "swagger" to her walk. We would need to see Dr. Kang and get his opinion on Cristal.
Before the appointment with Dr. Kang, we watched and observed Cristal. She didn't appear to be in any pain and wanted to play like a puppy. There was a clumsiness to her, but she continued to engage the other foster dogs and any humans. She was cute, and we remained optimistic as we waited for the appointment with Dr. Kang.
Arriving at Dr. Kang's, she was examined and observed. He watched her walk and then interact with the other dogs that came for a visit. He took an x-ray wanting to make sure of his diagnosis. After the exam and x-ray, he diagnosed Cristal's condition as a type of nerve damage. However, he was much more optimistic about his prognosis. He advised observing her for six to eight weeks. This type of nerve damage in puppies isn't uncommon and, as they grow, can heal. California GSP Rescue would continue to observe and care for Cristal for several weeks, but now she was safe!
Since being rescued, everyone that has met her has fallen for this cute little GSP Mix. She has captured hearts by giving anyone that holds her a little hug. We are sure it is her way of saying thank you.
Decisions to take dogs from shelters that need to see the Veterinarian aren't easy decisions to make. However, California GSP Rescue is grateful to the Rescue Heroes that help us make the sometimes tough decisions. Without The Rescue Heroes' help, and knowing the initial Vet bill could be paid, it would have been a much tougher decision to commit to rescuing Cristal. California GSP Rescue extends a heartfelt thank you to The Rescue Heroes as well as Volunteer David. Learn more here about becoming a Rescue Hero.
