ZUMA (a.k.a. Pearl)

We adopted Pearl, now Zuma, in February of 2009. She was one of the last 50 or so dogs rescued from Gabbs in January of 2008. Hopalong Animal Rescue found two wonderful foster families to share in her rehabilitation for a year and get her ready for her forever home.

Zuma is deaf, visually impaired, has a heart murmur and PDA, weak hips and we think she's a little brain damaged. I'd seen her on Hopalong's website for months and she tugged at my heartstrings. Her ailments sound a little daunting, but, she's a trooper and is just the happiest dog we've ever known.

Zuma with her new brother Enzo

She's skiddish as can be, but it doesn't hold her back. We've spent hours and hours working with her mostly with touch and massage, and just recently progressed to being able to hug her without her growling. Our other dog, Enzo, has taken easily to being her big brother and guide, although even he can't get her to relax in certain environments.

We have the toughest time when we take her to Pt. Isabel, the biggest dog park around, and we think it might remind her of the ranch at Gabbs. She stubbornly plants herself on the sidewalk and will not budge. Sometimes, a dog will come by that can get her to move, and other times, I give up after about 40 minutes, putting her back in the car while Enzo swims. She loves the car, and appears to find comfort in the closed-in space.

I'm attaching a couple of pics. The pic of their paws touching was taken recently. They aren't the snuggly together type and I just happened to have my phone right there to capture this moment...soon to be our Christmas card.

Ahhhhh...

I'm happy to have discovered this blog/web site. These are very special dogs, and I am interested in learning more about how to further rehabilitate our little girl.

Zuma, you look GREAT! Congrats on the new home.

GABBS

Gabbs was named for the place he came from. This boy has not had an easy life. At the ranch, Gabbs lived in a run with several dominant dogs. On the day when a representative from the Nevada Humane Society was visiting the ranch, Gabbs was attacked by his run mates and severely injured. He was taken back to the Nevada Humane Society where his wounds were treated and he was taken into the care of David, an animal care manager at the facility. Gabbs was leash trained, trained to run off lead, was house trained, car trained.... but Gabbs was with left more than physical scars. He is shy, shy, shy.

Gabbs at the Ranch

With David, Gabbs went on long hikes at Tahoe and in the winter went cross country skiing. But Gabbs became a frequent guest at Safe Haven after David left NHS. In May of this year, David was no longer able to care for Gabbs, so Gabbs came to my house and met “the gang”. So yes, he is good with other dogs. Gabbs is safe and happy here, but what he really needs is a forever home with a person who will appreciate the fact that his tail wags when he sees them. Sometimes, he even smiles.

Gabbs relaxing

Gabbs with his foster brother Twist

Gabbs is young, about three years old, and still looking for his person. Please contact B.A.R.K. if you are interested in giving Gabbs a 'furever' home.

GOOD LUCK GABBS!