We’d like to introduce you to Brutus.  He was owned since puppyhood by a man who lives in a 4^th floor apartment with outside stairs.  Now that Brutus is about to turn 11 years old, and showing some weakness in his rear legs, the stairs are too much for him.  His owner also has health issues and can no longer care for him properly and contacted GSRNE for help.  During the evaluation, in late November, Brutus was calm and patient in spite of having a painful ear infection.  We know how hard it is to find an adopter for a senior dog, but we just couldn’t leave Brutus in that situation.

He first stayed with our Training Director and was then offered foster care by a volunteer who had transported him.  Her own male GSD, Bogie, was not sure about that for a while; but he and Brutus now seem to enjoy each other’s company.  At night, they share a couch and both sleep well after the day’s activities.

There has been a lot of vet care so far.  The ear infection was treated right away, and we had X-Rays done to find out what was affecting his rear legs.  He has severe arthritis, and he does scuff his back feet during walks.  Brutus loves to go for walks alongside Bogie, so he’s now wearing booties to protect his paws.  After weeks of regular walks, his rear legs are gaining strength and he’s feeling better in general.  He’s had some diarrhea and stomach upsets, but a change of food is helping with that.  In addition to Bogie, Brutus has met a Chihuahua who belongs to the foster Mom’s parents; and all three dogs have enjoyed a walk together. Brutus is playful and active and calm when meeting new people.  He loves his Jolly Ball and will grab it, carry it over and bump his foster Mom’s legs until she takes hold and plays a tug game with him.  If she pretends to run away instead, Brutus will hustle along in pursuit. He gets Rimadyl and Gabapentin as needed, and he eats well and needs to put on a little weight.  We’ll continue to provide the love and care he needs to ensure that life will continue to be good for Brutus.

Brutus is doing very well with his foster Mom, and she is committed to doing all that is recommended for making this part of his life as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.