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Newton - Pensacola, FL
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Newton is an estimated 8 year old, neutered male, English Setter possibly ESS/English Setter mix. He appears to be a trained hunting dog - he holds a beautiful point for squirrels, birds and even domesticated parrots. He is a mellow dog who loves to be outside, preferably with his people. His habit of sitting in front of you extending his head with his eyes half closed for petting has been labeled by ESRA volunteers as his "I love You" look. And he does love people!
Newton
has had a difficult time in his life. He was ill when pulled by ESRA
from a North Carolina shelter last May, requiring treatment for heartworm
parasites. He has received follow-up treatment for dental problems while
in foster care.
He also has just been determined as a "special needs" dog, for we have just learned he has a deteriorating right hip joint. The femoral head (the ball shape that fits in the socket) is uneven and has calcium deposits as does the socket itself. Further, the lip of the socket is misshapen. Our vet has told us this is a typical pattern of hip problems seen in some breed of dogs - one presumably being English Setters.
Even with his medical needs he is the perfect companion dog for a loving home who can give him a soft spot on the sofa. He is up to date on vaccinations and is on heartworm and flea preventative. He is good with children, however he does occasionally play roughly. Older teens would be a good match for him. He is excellent on a leash although he does not seem to have had any significant training.
UPDATE November 21, 2002:
From Newton's foster mom, Leigh McKenzie:
Newton, my long term foster, died last night.
He seemed restless as we all settled in for the night. Moving about trying to find a comfortable spot. I awoke this morning to find that his soul had departed. My heart is breaking but I know he is sitting in front of Jan at the Rainbow Bridge -- stretching out his head for a caress and looking at her with love in his eyes. That image is very comforting.
For those who do not know Newt's story. He was rescued from a shelter in North Carolina. A former hunting dog, he had been relinquished to the shelter with his former owner not even providing his name. Newt was heartworm positive, under weight, and loaded with parasites. He lived with me in Pensacola throughout his treatment. And, following a failed adoption in September 2000, he came back home.
When he was diagnosed with of severe arthritis in his hip, Newt became a special needs Springer. I have had numerous inquiries in the last two years about Newt. Many simply asking how he was doing.
I take some comfort in that he was happy and content to run and play with his siblings -- especially Tanner who was his best friend. At least for the last years of his life, he had a warm place to sleep and a family who loved him.
Newton -- we loved you very much. Rest in peace.
Leigh McKenzie
| NEWTON'S GENEROUS SPONSORS TO DATE: | |
 Florence Dick
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in memory of Miss Ginger Piggy Dog |
| David Higgins
& David Miles |
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| Greg Smith |
In memory of Lady |
| Cindy Brassfield |
In memory of all the "Special" Springers I have known |
| Velinda Rubio |
This is to honor my best friend & companion Luna. |
| Heidi Johnson
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in memory of Molly |
| Dette & Thomas
Thompson |
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| Kristen Kaspari
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in memory of Molly |
| Mary Steffey |
in memory of Molly |
| Bernadette &
Stewart Olson |
in memory of Reamus |
| Gary
and Margaret Hanes |
in memory of little Maddie from Texas |
| Ed Allen |
In memory of Bonnie & Scarlette...2 great Springers |
| Somebody
New |
Bobby and Buddy...2 reasonably great Springers |