This a sad story- but we hope it has a happy ending!!! The rescue group
Rudy just days after being rescued
Happy Endings Rescue here in Nashville recently rescued a five-year-old mixed breed dog named Rudy. It is a tragic situation. He was basically abandoned and withering away when found. He had no food, no water, no shelter, and no human interaction- and is suffering with some severe health problems.
Happy Endings Director Cody Gosselin called me and inquired about how we at Natchez Trace Clinic might be able to help Rudy. I really admire Cody because of his compassion and persistence in providing such a needed service to so many dogs. Cody was seeking options for Rudy’s treatment, including acupuncture, which is actually the best option for Rudy’s treatment. I have begun acupuncture treatments and also donated some of our premium Pet-Tao Dog Food to help Rudy begin the road to recovery.
Dr. Smith treating Rudy at Natchez Trace Clinic
The really sad part was that when he was found, Rudy was withering away to nothing. He has some neurological deficits in his rear legs that are inhibiting his ability to function as a normal dog, so he is having trouble walking. Cody and Happy Endings are really to be commended for all their hard work and sacrifice in helping Rudy and all the dogs and cats they save. Like all non-profit rescue services, they need your support in many ways (donations, time, etc) in order to keep their work going. Please learn more at happyendingsrescue.org. They are located in Madison, TN.
Hopefully, Rudy will benefit from the acupuncture, the pet food and the great care at Happy Endings and ultimately recover. It will be a tough road, but I have been surprised before!!! I will keep you updated.
We’re rooting for Rudy and can’t wait to watch his progress!
I am sad to report that Rudy passed away. He was starting to recover and looked like he might make it and even got up with the help of a sling and could move his left leg and stand on it and would drag his right leg. Near his end he was able to move both legs slowly but couldn’t really walk. He eat everything we put in front of him and gained about 15 pounds. His ribs faded away and his skin and eyes were showing life again. But, then in late January, 2010 Rudy took a turn for the worse and never recovered. He fell fast and within a week he was gone. I was with him till the end and loved him and he knew it. I changed his blankets and bedding 3 times a day. He will be remembered and I thank Dr. Smith for trying but as we rescue these dogs off the Streets it’s usually too late by the time we get to them. He will be remembered as a comedian who would constantly talk to the cats that shared his room. The cats would tease him and he would tell them off. It was funny to watch and I still see him today when I look over in the corner of the room where his bedding was. We will see you at Rainbows Bridge Rudy. Take care…