Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary, Inc. -- RESCUE, the compassionate alternative.
 
 

Homeward Bound Logo
 


Home

Our Mission

HB Video

The Sanctuary

Map & Directions

Available Goldens

Adopting

Adoption Application

Fostering

Surrendering Your Golden

Donating

How You Can Help

Volunteer Application

Shop Our Golden Mall

Membership

Events

Golden Stories

Newsletters & Articles

Junior's Blog

Pet Resources

Contacts

Email Us
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Special Needs - Rachel's Story

Rachel

Sweet Rachel

June 2003  July 2003  August 2003  September 2003

Although they are graphic in nature, we are not displaying photos of this poor little orphan to sensationalize her situation. Our purpose is simply to demonstrate the need for rescue organizations such as Homeward Bound and to illustrate the type of veterinary expenses we incur on a routine basis, often as a result of gross neglect by former owners.

This sweet girl is estimated to be about 7 months old, although she appears to be much older due to the horrific condition of her skin and coat. Rachel was dumped at a Northern California shelter by her former owner, who casually mentioned that she never treated Rachel's skin condition because it was not "contagious". Rachel is suffering from a severe case of demodex, a treatable skin disease. Because the demodex went untreated, she developed a raging staph infection. The photos, as gruesome as they are, do not accurately depict the ghastly lesions all over her body, or the suffering she has endured. 

In spite of her suffering, Rachel is one lucky girl for several reasons. She survived her former owner and she escaped the "shelter" with her life, which is nothing short of a miracle at this vile Northern California facility. In rescue circles, it is referred to as a "killing machine", as very few of the incarcerated animals make it out alive. 

Rachel's skin conditionWithin minutes of arriving at the Homeward Bound Sanctuary, Rachel was treated by Dr. Jyl, one of our participating veterinarians. Rachel received a medicated bath, but screamed out in pain because her skin is so raw. She was also administered pain medication, antibiotics for the staph infection and Ivermectin for the demodex condition. For the first time in her young life, Rachel will also be receiving nutritious food (thanks to Canidae foods!) and a lot of TLC. Dr. Jyl has estimated that it will be six to eight months before Rachel has fully recovered.

Fortunately, the criminal neglect bestowed upon poor Rachel did not kill her spirit. This spunky young Golden prances around the Sanctuary grounds as if she were perfectly healthy, even though she is in a great deal of pain. 

We will be posting progress reports and photos as Rachel evolves from ugly duckling to Golden princess. Wish her well as she continues along her Homeward Bound journey. 

If you would like to help us help Rachel and other special needs goldens, your donation of any size would be gratefully appreciated! 

Early July 2003

We are very happy to report that Rachel is recovering nicely. She is now in a loving foster home and receiving, in addition to lots of love and attention, quality food, vitamins, medicine, and bi-weekly visits to the vet. It is estimated that it will take about 6 more months to clear up her skin condition and to strengthen her immune system. She sends a special thanks to Pat and Tom for the wonderful handmade quilt.
Rachel's Face - July 2003 Rachel's Face - July 2003 Rachel's Back is Healing - July 2003
Rachel's Smiling Again - July 2003 Rachel's Healing Legs - July 2003  
 
Late July 2003
 
Rachel Playing with Tennis Ball Skin is Healing Nicely A Very Happy Puppy
 
Late August 2003
Rachel continues to do well. Her weight is up to 42 lbs, her skin is healing nicely and her beautiful golden red hair is growing back. She loves other dogs and is seen here playing w/ big brother Wally.
Rachel and Wally Rachel and Wally Playing with a new Soccer Ball
Happy Puppy Uh, oh, Wally is coming for my toys. These Gummy bones are great for my desire to chew
toys ... All these toys ... you can never have too many. ... and
more toys.
September 2003
We're happy to report that Rachel is doing great. Her infections are healed and her soft silky hair continues to grow in nicely. Her foster family recently adopted her and a big brother for her to play with. She's a normal happy puppy now, and can look forward to a long wonderful life thanks to Homeward Bound.
Rachel's Face   Rachel laying on the floor.
 

7495 Natomas Road, Elverta CA  95626  |  TEL  916-655-1410  |  FAX  916-655-3410   |  501(c)(3) non-profit organization - Tax ID #68-0442702