We saw Andrew at the Farmington Animal Shelter on June 11, 2009. Since he had been picked up as a stray 3 times, the shelter said they would give his family until Saturday June 13 to come and pick him up. We were at the shelter when it opened that Saturday and since his family never came we filled out the adoption forms but couldn't take him home until Monday since he had to be neutered.
On Monday, June 15th, Dr. Garcia neutered him and attached a note to him saying he had some abscesses and we needed to stop by for some medicine. When we got him home and cut off the layer of mats that totally covered his little body we found 2 abscesses, 7 chit grass stuck in his body and a cyst on the top of his head!
Andrew quickly recovered from all his physical problems but it took a bit longer to get him over the fear of tall men in hats, fly swatters and people walking behind him. After 2 1/2 years he is both physically and mentally healthy. He is also the smartest dog we have ever had. He is working in the top level of Obedience, only needs one more qualifying trial to complete the top level of Rally and is working at the top level of Agility. In addition to his work in competition he is also an active Therapy Dog. Each week he (along with his 2 sisters) visits Childhaven and Cedar Ridge Inn where he gives the residents lots of love and does his tricks.
We were at the Good Sam International RV Rally in Phoenix and Andrew took part in the Doggie Musical Chairs competition. There were the same number of empty bowls as dogs and when the music stopped each dog had to sit by a bowl. The slowest dog was eliminated in each round. Andrew beat out 29 other dogs to be the last dog standing--therefore the fastest sitter. He won a wonderful gold cup for his efforts.
We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful little dog, He says , "Thank You," every day.
