Entrant's First Name
Lindsey

Bio
Gordon, a former bait dog was dumped during the dead of winter in a trainyard. Residents in proximity to the trainyard called the SPCA and the Edmonton City Pound reporting an injured stray. It took 10 days to track him down. When he was taken into care, he weighed in at 27lbs, his choke collar had to be cut out of his neck as it had grown into his skin, his teeth had been filed, his nails had been pulled, and he was covered in lacerations.

When I met him, he was insecure, scared and would have visceral reactions to loud noises. He was broken but beautiful. I knew I had to have him.

I brought him home not knowing how much work would involved in adopting such a beast. Dog parks and playtime in off leash areas were not an option; he wanted to fight every dog he saw. He had strong separation anxiety; he had to be with me at all times and he would jump into the bathtub if I was having a soak. I enlisted the help of a respected trainer and watched every episode and YouTube video I could of Cesar Milan.

Bit by bit, I learnt what he needed, and how to provide leadership, guidance and support for him. The fur on his neck grew in, the wounds healed, and his nails came in! He was handsome and robust at 80 pounds, but his Vet cautioned that he probably wouldn't live past 8 years of age.

As his health steadily improved, he channeled his nervous energy into playing with chew toys, running on the treadmill and long walks. He began to flourish, and become a calm and relaxed dog, but I felt that he needed a canine family member. Enter Wally, a strong willed 4 month old Pekingese (also a rescue). Their introduction was slow and controlled- the Dog Whisper would have been proud. Gord loved Wally, and he thrived having a four-legged playmate!

They have become best friends and are inseparable, opting to share one bed instead of sleeping alone. Last week, we celebrated Gordon's 10th birthday- he beat the odds! And all the remains of his former life are the faint scars on his face, ears and neck.

Species
dog