Spotlight Success Story: Patrick

Hi, my name is Patrick.

Progress Updates

May 18, 2007	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Hi everyone! I am still alive and cookin'. (Mom says I am cookin' too much 'cos I am a bit, shall we say "fluffy"?). Well, shoot! What's a doggy to do? One must eat! Anyhoo, I have been reading up on the new rescues and am so happy that these doggies have found good fosters and forever homes! It makes me proud to be one of the alumni Spotlight dogs. I just want to tell them to keep on getting better and happier because they will have the best care and love in the world with their new humans! Our dogpack is now up to 6. Mom fostered a deaf Border Collie named Lexy. Well, she is now a failed rescue! I think Lexy is a nut case. Annie and I are getting ready to go on our annual trip to the Missouri Earthdogs Memorial Day Bash at Purina Farms. If you have not gone, it is such a great time and beautiful location. I will try my paw at racing for the first time since I was hurt. I probably wont win but I will sure have fun not winning! (dog grin) I will also do the Barn Hunt again. Dad says I am a great ratter but I cant seem to get the rats at the Barn Hunts. Weird! We are gonna stay with Auntie Judi and her family and help out with graduation and a wedding party. Aunt Judi says that it will be total chaos - something we Jack Russells are good at! LOL!!! Plus, she has these HUMUNGOUS doggies that Mom calls horses. (Funny name for a dog.) I will howl with Huskie-dog Keiko who yodels. And we will both antagonize the heck out of Jordie the Pom! That is way too much fun! I am always up for fun and games no matter when it is. I LOVE TO PLAY! I lead a full life now and so can the doggies who need help. I stay busy with ratting, running, snoozing, eating, cuddling, playing. Mom, Dad and I hope you humans will continue to support Rescue and help the dogs that are spotlighted so they can be whole again. Patrick
February 9, 2007	From Patrick It has been about 3 years now that we got Patrick. He is nearly 5 now with his gotcha date as July 4. He has matured and gotten sweeter and happier with time. I am so thrilled to see him frolick daily with the other dogs. He is such a prankster! Catherine Brown once said Patrick was the first Spotlight Dog. The Spotlight Dogs are a growing group of very special dogs that were put here for a special reason. So many of us poured out our hearts and opened our wallets to help these pups! These dogs have a way of bringing out the best in people. Please continue to support the Spotlight Dogs and Russell Rescue. If it was not for them, Alison Linstrum, and Dr. Shelly Steinmetz, Patrick would not be here lighting up my life today! Stay warm! Patrick crawls under the covers every night and refuses to get out of bed before 11a.m. (But at least he has not stolen any alarm clocks lately!) Olivia
December 19, 2006	From Patrick Hi and Happy Winter! It is cold here in WV. I figure I should be allowed to go South for the Winter since I don't like the cold much. I stick my nose out the dog door to see what the temperature is and go from there. The other day I saw a lot of white stuff coming out of the sky. It was whiter than me! I always though snow was yellow. Mom says I am not getting enough exercise 'cos she had to loosen my collar. Well, I get dragged, tossed, chewed, buried, smashed, launched over things, stomped on, licked to death, kicked, rolled, banged and flown by a certain HUMUNGOUS puppy named TeddyBear who thinks I am his personal tug/toss toy. How much more exercise does she think I need??? Geesh! Actually playing with Teddy is a lot of fun, though. He does not hurt me at all. I just wish he would help me get those darn rabbits! And I dont eat much from my food dish. (Secret from Mom. I do nosh from everydoggy else's dish, though. Don't tell her!) I still enjoy an easy life with Mom and Dad and the rest of the gang. At night I split my time lying across Mom on her lazy boy and then go to Dad's chair where I stretch out so he cannot work the crossword puzzle. I am finding men more friendly now but still am worried that I will encounter a bad guy who will try to hurt me. I know Mom and Dad and my other humans wont let it happen - but I still worry. I want to say Happy Holidays and whichever ones you all celebrate. I particularly want to say Happy Howlidays to the dogs who have been rescued and are happy like me, and to those who have not yet found their forever homes, stay hopeful. There are lots of humans in Russell Rescue that are trying to help you out. And to the humans - how about telling other dog people that instead of you getting them presents, that you will make a contribution to Rescue in their names instead???? I love you all!!! Patrick! (and the WV gang - Annie, Kate, Allie, TeddyBear, Smudgy, Chiquita, Mom and Dad, the fishies, Brian, Kevin and Amanda, Sierra and Ali)
May 30	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Hi! We hope everyone had a Memorable Memorial Day. Annie, Patrick and I went to St. Louis for the wonderful Missouri Earth Dogs trial at Purina Farms. This is Annie's 6th visit and Patrick's second. We stayed with a friend who has 3 dogs, 2 horses and a parrot with an attitude. Annie and Patrick spent Friday at a doggie spa while I did some sight-seeing, and came back looking gorgeous and pretty relaxed, too. Saturday we were at Purina Farms where Patrick competed in the Challenge Lure Course and Barn Hunt. Lee Rabalko told everyone who watched Patrick run, about what Patrick went through as a pup, so Pdog made a bunch of new friends. Annie placed 3rd in Challenge Lure Course as a Veteran. This is her best time yet. She also got 6th place in junior Veterans hurdles racing even though she does not really care for racing. She gets better as she ages. Those who have known Patrick are pleased with his appearance and the way the leg looks. He is showing some serious muscle there so I am happy. He still has some stiffness but not as bad as before! Patrick tried his paw at the Barn Hunt. Since he is such a superior ratter here at home we figured it would be a good match for him. However, he did not place at all. The judge said Patrick looked like "a bit of a dandy". Well, he was clean and wearing a bandana, and he is very gentle. I told the judge what Patrick went through. The judge then said Patrick has earned every bit of happiness and leisure that he can get for his life. One more thing! Patrick is now more comfortable around strange men - I mean male strangers. (LOL!) I am so very pleased that he is more comfortable with good people and trust that he will know the difference between good people and not-so-good people. Olivia
April 15	From Patrick Hi everydoggy! It's SPRING!!! I am having a great time now. Teddy and I run around the yard lickety-split all day long but stop only when Dad yells at us to stop! But then we get our engines up again and off we go. Sometimes Allie joins in. But Katie ran with us for the first time in a loooonnnnggg time. She looked funny 'cos she is a bit (shall we say) "fluffy". But at least she is trying. I love her anyway. I have found some new critters in the yard, too. Seems Dad caught a big old rat a few days ago. May have been a mommy rat though because some babies came about. I played with one but it died. I dont understand why. Mom said maybe a heart attack - that I scared it to death. It was so very cute! Mom was screaming at me to get rid of it. She was on top of the table. (She gets mad at me when I get on the table, but it's o.k. for her??? I will never figure out humans!) Anyway, I still brought it inside to Dad. He seems to like rats or maybe it was a mouse. Well, things only got worse. Another little critter came up a day or so later. So I brought it to Mom again. She freaked again! (I don't understand.) So I guess I cannot do much to give my mommy a gift. I guess I will just sit next to her and love her as best I can. HAPPY EASTER AND PASSOVER ALL!!!
February 14	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick got into his first fight Saturday. He is grouchy and tried to take on the monster puppy, TeddyBear, and Allie. Annie lost that fight - over a dog bone! Patrick got away with his good looks and a challenged ego. We have not had much snow here until this weekend. Patrick is the only one of our remaining dogs who does not like it. It may be that it bothers his leg, but possibly because of his puppyhood experience being tossed out into the cold New Jersey winter after his beating. (Can't say I blame him.) He is now about 3 years old and sweet and sensitive as always. We have had some emotional misfortune this past week so he has stuck to me like glue. I had back surgery on the 2nd. Goldie died in the wee hours of the 3rd - 2 days shy of her 16th birthday. Katie had a seizure. Patrick was crazy with emotion. He needed lots and lots of hugs and love. Patrick kept his nose on my spine when I was lying down or sleeping. I guess to be sure I was o.k. He seems to always have his eyes on me while I am at home recuperating - except for that pesky dogbone. I love him more and more everyday. And speaking of love, Patrick and I wish you all the happiest of Valentine's Day and send Valentine's donations to Rescue if you want to do something meaningful with your love!
December 27, 2005	From Patrick Hi everyone! I was rather busy with Christmas and wrapping (or rather UNwrapping) things and setting up the tree and stuff. Mostly stuff. So I did not get a chance to wish everyone a happy and peaceful Christmas. So hopefully you all will have a great New Year! Mom said she found a "love handle" on my backside so she has me exercising more. I thought love handles are a good thing. I mean they SOUND good. I run everyday and jump up (trying to eat the rabbits), and continue trying to keep unwanted critters out of the yard. The other night I swear I fought off a Tasmanian Devil. Mom said I was just barking at a black bear outside of our fence. The new dufus pup, TeddyBear tried to be friends with it. They are both about the same size. HUMUNGOUS! He takes all the fun out of things! I have learned the fine art of sneaking. When Annie and TeddyBear get into a "discussion" over a juicy morsel or really fun toy, I sneak in between everyone and get it away from them before they know it! Teddy does not see me 'cos he is so tall. Annie doesn't know it 'cos she is deaf and preoccupied with taking the stuffing out of Teddy (Not). He grabs her by the neck when they "chat". I think it is about as much fun as sneaking alarm clocks. We don't have snow right now. But up till Christmas it was very cold. I get into bed with Mom and roll around until the blankies completely have me wrapped up like a hot dog. Mom calls it my alligator death roll. She has to make the bed with me in it in the morning. So I often sleep till 11am when Dad finally gets annoyed and gets me up. The other dogs try to get me up earlier but don't succeed. LOL!!! I like to think I am doing my part saving energy. Christmas Eve was a blast for Annie, Teddy and me (and the buns). Katie was just coming out of a drug haze because she has epilepsy and was having seizures, so she did not unwrap presents. Allie preferred to watch. Goldie went to bed early. Annie's Secret Santa from her deafdog list must have maxed out her bank account. We got 2 HUGE boxes full of toys and treats!!! We stayed up all night playing with all sorts of things! I mean WOW!!! I say not bad for a rescue dog who was out in the cold 2 years ago! Well, Mom wants to go to bed so I gotta turn off the laptop. We all wish everyone a happy new year. My particular wish is that there are no JRTs in rescue anymore because they are all happy and healthy in homes who love them as much as I am loved forever. (That is actually what I asked Santa for but I will settle for the toys.) I love you all!!!! Patrick
Oct 18, 2005	From Patrick Mom tells me I am not going to Nationals this year. BUMMER!!!! I am going to miss all my buddies and all the fun! Shoot!!! She tried to make me feel better by taking us to Bob Evans Farm Autumn Festival where Annie almost stole some man's maple sucker away from him. She almost got it too!!!! We got to meet Auntie Susie and lots of other people who came by her booth. Everything smelled so good - apples and maple everything. Lots of people brought their pooches. We even saw a couple of other Jack Russells too. It was a lot of fun getting away from Little S--- (aka TeddyBear the rottweiler mix puppy from he--). I know he's just a puppy - but he draws blood! I have an awful time trying to get out from under thunder paws. (If I was only as big as he is, I'd teach him a thing or 2.) I hope everyone has a lot of fun at Nationals! Be safe. Play by the rules. Eat Auntie Alison's horseradish. A sad Patrick (and Annie)
September 12, 2005	From Patrick Annie, Mom, and I have had some real cool fun these past few weeks! Mom, Auntie Sara Sue, Annie, and I went to Rochester NY for the Sunny Hill trial. HOW COOL WAS THAT!!! It was beautiful! Weather was great! I think I could live there. Ms. Evans was really nice. We kinda made fools of ourselves with the desserts. They were served on the buffet table before the main dish (grin). I also got to spend some time with Auntie Catherine who I dearly love. Mom entered me in conformation both days. I did not want to be there on Saturday. I preferred just goofing off or lure coursing. I made a complete idiot out of myself and Mom trying to get away from the conformation ring. I still came home with a 4th place ribbon. (tee hee!) I settled down the next day and still got a 4th place ribbon. (geesh!) Annie also placed 4th in ball toss - but she simply had to do it her way. Mom brought Annie's toss ring which she is passionate about. That did the trick! AND, this past weekend, we went to Jackapalooza nearby at a nice campground in Ohio. Mom said we were taking our lives in our hands 'cos our SUV is Blue and Gold and she went to Univ. of Michigan. We camped out with a bunch of Michiganders and had a terrific time! Very exciting, too. Of course all us Jacks were very well behaved! I think we had to teach those humans a thing or 2. I mean what dog in his or her right mind would wear drinking cups with Hershey Kisses on her Bazooom like Auntie Ch. ( o.k. Mom I wont say who it was!). What appeared even neater tho was that I think all the dogs there were rescue dogs. Thanks to Auntie Robin from Oregon and her generosity. Otherwise Mom was unaware of the doggie gift grab. The potluck was yummy!!! I got to taste test Auntie Denise's spaghetti. (So did Annie.) Yummy! And she gave Annie 3 of her dog's tennis balls! Annie practically destroyed all the balls in the cabin. I played and played with Jack until the humans wanted to go to bed - and even after that we played and played. I liked the fact that all us doggies got along so very well and 99.9% of all the people were so very cool!!!!! I hope we will go again next year. Sadly we will be unable to go to Nationals this year. Mom said because Dad is unemployed and has not yet received his Social Security, the gasoline being super duper high, we just cannot justify the expense. So I expect to hear from my friends about all the goings on. Much love, Patrick (and Annie and Mom)
July 17, 2005	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick has been keeping super busy lately. We (Annie, Patrick and I) went to the Breezewood Russell Rescue Trial in June and had a very good, if not very hot time. He met a lot of new friends and saw some old friends, too. After the trial we had quite an adventure getting home, but he was happy to see it. He is now big brother to a new male puppy that we took in. Victim of a broken home when the woman threw a 3 month old pup out into the street. A friend brought it to us temporarily. Well, temporary has turned to permanent. Patrick has been the only one to really play with him while the older dogs just tolerate him. Kenny used to be his name but we now call him TeddyBear (one word), because he looks like one. Patrick is getting a bit upset because once TeddyB was smaller than Annie but is now as tall as Patrick and weighs nearly as much as he. He will turn 4 months on the 20th. The pup is part Rottweiler/part German Shepherd mix. He has begun to hold his position with the other dogs (especially Annie who has backed down from him). Patrick has been needing more cuddling and affection as a result - which we give him by the truckload! He does occasionally ask when TeddyBear is going home. Patrick is so very patient. Last weekend Patrick and Annie met some very nice people, Dawn and Nathan, along with their Jack Russell, Abby. Patrick became rather sweet on Abby because she is a cutie. But she and Annie did not get along at all. Patrick accidentally got loose and led Nathan on a merry chase through the neighborhood for about 20 minutes. But Nathan caught him and brought him back to us. Patrick looked happy and a tad bit mischievous. He did show them that he is quite the clown. In August, Patrick, Annie and I are going to the Sunny Hill trial in New York state. We will be helping out at the Russell Rescue tent so he can meet more people in between events. This time he does not want to miss the rescue parade.
June 8, 2005	From Patrick We had a great time in St. Louis. Weather was great (Mom says for a change)! I ran the challenge lure course and had a blast!!! I won 4th place in the power jump. I felt pretty good about that since I tend to drag my leg. I got to meet some really nice people like Roland and Rosanne Cox and their rescue dog Fresno. Mom has known them for a few years. We spent time with Auntie Judi, Uncle Gary, and my human cousins Jeff and Jaime. I encountered a HUMONGOUS dog! It had 4 legs, long hair and tail, and huge paws (Mom calls it a horse.) Auntie Judi also had a squawky bird, a Malamute (Keiko who yodels), Bear, an Elkhound and Jordy who is a crazy little Pomeranian. Then in Jaime's room there is a ferret and sugar glider. I had fun in there. Annie and I partied hard on Friday night and did not get back to the hotel until 2a.m. Then there was this little fuzzy pug pup who wanted to play, so we played until 230am. We did not quite make it to the racing event the next day. (hehe) Annie walked thru the challenge lure course. Everyone there was a bit surprised at her. But she came back and won 2nd in power jump and 4th in challenge lure course. We got back and had only one day off before we had to go to Morgantown WV for a meeting (Mom did not want to drive back to Chas.) then on to Thorndale for the Breezewood trial. It got pretty hot and I am pretty much into a/c. Since it was a rescue trial I was afraid Mom was gonna leave me there so I carried on all the time she was gone (like to the porta potty). But she always came back. She kept saying she would never leave me. Whew! I met tons of nice people there. Mom's friend Julie made a banner for me and Annie. Wayyy cool! Met Sue and Janet (Mom's friend who wrote about me and made me "nearly world famous"), Carol and Mike, and this swell guy named Bill from Atlanta. The rescue people said he read about me and decided to get active in rescue by donating lots of time and money to the cause. Mom thinks she lost her money in a porta potty so our vacation was cut extremely short. We were this close to to Valley Forge. Darn! Got home on a wing and a prayer. I was sooo happy to get home!!!! Will be staying put until the Sunny Hill trial in late August. Here is a pic of me and Mom with Uncle Roland and Auntie Rosanne and Fresno, a rescue adoptee from Carson Rescue. He was a cool pooch!
May 20, 2005	From Patrick Hello everyone! Patrick here. I have been watching my Mom do stuff on the laptop so I thought I would try my paw at it. Let's see. Next week I am going to meet every doggy at Purina Farms in St. Louis MO, along with some of Goldie's friends, Auntie Judi, cousins Jeff and Jaime, and Uncle Gary. They help doggies with epilepsy (Goldie and Katie are epileptic doggies). Goldie says there is a lot of fun there cos there are horses and doggies and lots of farm animals. I am going to try my leg at a race. I got my first rat! Outside the other night. I was sooo proud that I brought it in to show Mom. I just do not understand why she was screaming and climbing on top of things to the ceiling. Something about getting that blankety blankety thing out of here. (I would have thought she would be pleased. Ungrateful woman.) I also am mad at the Vet. She said I am overweight. Geesh! What's a guy to do? Mom and Dad and lots of my friends disagree with the Vet. I am on the tall side (right at 15") for a Jack and muscular. I do not eat much. Dad said I graze (like a cow). I am also going to the Russell Rescue trial in June so I can meet other people and see my friends Carol and Mikey again. I love my home and my Mom and Dad. They keep me safe and happy and loved.
April 26, 2005	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia We are well into spring now. Patrick has been testing himself trying to catch chipmunks and field rodents of all kinds - all of which are faster and more cunning than he. But he doesn't know it. He will experience his first race in May either at the High Hopes Steeplechase in Lexington KY or Missouri Earthdogs Memorial Day Bash at Purina Farms. I am also going to try him in a go-to-ground event because he really really wants to go after critters. He would probably win if there was a suitability to chipmunk class - and only if the chipmunk was not looking. (grin) He has been so very full of P and V lately. His joie de vivre (sp?) is infectious. He does not have an enemy (human or nonhuman) - except for the idiot who almost killed him. Patrick is still cautious of certain male body types, however. But he has never attacked anyone and remains a rather calm boy when meeting his public. (Unlike my little jumping bean, Annie.) Since Richard has been at home mostly, he has really gotten closer to him than before. But he is still my baby boy! He cuddles with me at night and anytime I sit in my recliner... AND he finally stopped remodeling my recliner! (Now I need a new one. LOL!!!)
March 18, 2005	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Hello and (almost) Happy Spring from Patrick! I watch my little boy and am amused at how he shows his intelligence (or should I call it sneakiness. sp?) For example, Annie will not share her bone with anyone and brings it on top of the bed. Patrick jumps up there as well and pretends to not be looking. I can see that he is watching Annie's moves out of the corner of his eye. When she looks away, he slowly slides closer to the bone then lies down when Annie looks back. This can go on for a bit until he is within a good shot of getting the bone and running away with it. I think he knows that Annie is deaf and uses her deafness to his advantage. When we are outside playing, he will come up and grab Annie's toy from me and run away with it while Annie chases him. All of this is really funny to watch! He is such a clown! The next door neighbor came over to our fence today. He often does that with dog treats so all my dogs go to the fence to greet him and see what he has to give them. Patrick is right in front of all of them. Patrick seems to be getting more and more comfortable with men in general. I am very pleased with this.
February 13, 2005	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick will be celebrating his one year foster anniversary on February 15. He began his foster home with Alison Linstrum and began his journey to recovery and happiness. Patrick and I cannot tell you how much her love and care for him means. Alison is one of the all-time great dog Moms. She nurtured him and cared for him during his difficult recovery. Dr. Sheldon Steinmetz (aka Shelly) worked a miracle with my boy. There is a special place in heaven for these two people - AND the people who initially rescued him and got him to Alison and Shelly. Patrick has become such a wonderful part of our family. He has finally stopped stealing alarm clocks but loves to hide Richard's stuff. He will always have a stiff leg but that does not stop him from being a crazy dog! He greets me at the front door every night when I return from work. He also loves the luxury of the soft fleece blanket that I use to cover the bed at night. I frequently have to unroll him from it just to get in bed. He also likes sleeping in late in the morning so I have now taken to making the bed with a lump in it. He sits on the right recliner arm when we are watching t.v. (and if Annie is lying there, he just sits right on top of her!) He no longer shows fear of long thin metal things. (We don't go out of our way to show them either.) Patrick's love for life is infectious. He wants to do different things. This year we will try him in go-to-ground, since he would dearly like to have my 2 rabbits for a meal. Happy Valentine's Day to everyone from Patrick (and me).
January 21, 2005	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Envision this. This morning @ 245am. Snowing like crazy! Patrick was sound asleep. He decides to wake up and go outside which he does. I try to remain asleep but aware, ready for him to scratch at the bedroom door (which sounds like a bomb dropped). He does not. More and more I am awake and wondering when he will come in. I decide to get up and look out the window. There he is running around the back yard lickety split - a tri-color blur racing back and forth very quietly but with a look of total joy on his face. No other dog is outside. About 330am he decides to come in. POW!!!! Against the bedroom door. I get back up and let him in. He climbs into bed looking quite pleased with himself. He feels very cold as he climbs under the covers. Pisses Annie off 'cos she has, by now, gotten under the covers and is sleeping peacefully. I try to go back to sleep but get the occasional jolt from any one of 5 ice cubes (4 paws and a nose). Needless to say, the night's sleep was a loss for me (worked today), but he was happy and remained asleep when I left this morning. He is a happy 2 year old.
January 7, 2005	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia I took Patrick for a check up and his 5 in one shots today along with my senior dog Goldie. He went to the back of the SUV and sat there until we got to the Vet. He then made himself right at home at the Vets. The Vet checked him out and found him to be very sound. He did not complain and I think found the Vet to be rather attractive (she is blond). Patrick weighs in at 23 lbs now but not at all fat. The boy is all muscle! She checked his leg and said that with the exception of the inability to bend the leg completely, his leg muscle is 100%. While we were working on Goldie, Patrick was able to sneak out of the examining room. Next thing we hear is "loose dog remodeling the back room" and lots of laughter! Seems our boy was "selecting his treats that he wanted to take with him and had climbed a couple of shelves tossing feed bags off the shelf. I was very apologetic while picking stuff up. Patrick "smiled" and charmed the socks of the staff. Nothing and no one was damaged.
December 19, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Before everyone takes off on their holidays to wherever you go, my Patrick, the gang (Pooh, Goldie, Pete, Annie, Kate and Allie), Richard and I wish to tell everyone Happy and Peaceful Holidays (whichever ones you celebrate). Keep rescue in your thoughts and donate if you can. If you can adopt, you can surely end up with some fantastic critters like Patrick or Jackie (doesn't she look GREAT!!!!) Patrick has experienced some loss recently here at our house. Just after our return from Nationals in October, my 10 year old Brittany mix, Maggie, succumbed very suddenly to Sudden Onset Diabetes. (I had a physical exam done on her in late August and all was well so this was a shock to everyone.) That very same week, my other 10 year old Boston Terrier mix (B.B.) began acting poorly so we got her to the Vet. She collapsed while there and had to be revived. She spent some time with the Vets where she had a large blood clot and stump pyometra removed. Fortunately, they were non-cancerous. She has Cushings Disease as well so she is not recovering as quickly as we thought she should. But Patrick is trying to help her with that and being very helpful by dragging her pillows around for her. We had to put our oldest girl, Pokey, to sleep, Monday. She was the love of Patrick's life. He was bummed out for a few days and would not let any dog come near the basement (we had to keep it in the basement until the weather was good enough to bury her in our pet cemetery). He allowed her daughter, Pooh, to spend time with Pokey prior to burial. He has been very sweet to Pooh since then. He is quite sensitive to other dog's (and people's) feelings. One of the MANY things we love about him.
December 5, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick's leg has developed some real good muscle. I am very pleased with the way it is looking. He will most likely always be a bit clumsy because he will not be able to extend or retract his leg normally like other dogs do. But that does not stop him from doing dog stuff at all. We have also had to discipline him for doing bad things (hard to imagine but true - lol). We held back on this because of the past abuse and because he is such a good natured fella. Now, though, when we tell him firmly STOP PATRICK! he does. He does not run and hide like he used to. We can also now take out metal objects (like a yardstick) and use them. As long as he is a short distance away, he seems to feel comfortable with it. Before, he would totally freak out! We will be decorating for Christmas soon. I wonder what he will do with our decor. Hmmm...
November 11, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick has been doing his best to watch over the back yard since Maggie died a couple of weeks ago. He is not a howler like Maggie did but goes out and barks at the moon in the dark of the evening. Fortunately for the neighbors he goes to bed early. Lately, he has been sacked out across my lap before 9pm. But this morning I could not find him anywhere when morning treats were being handed out. This was highly unusual since he loves his treats! I looked around the house and figured he was downstairs exploring in the basement. As I was preparing for work I happened to look out in the backyard and saw Patrick sitting very primly looking straight ahead, sitting perfectly still in the subfreezing weather, on top of the rabbit feed container situated underneath the rabbit cages. We have an ex-pen surrounding the raised rabbit cages so they will be protected from the dogs. But Patrick gets underneath and jumps up trying to get to them in the crates (unsuccessfully). The rabbits managed to express their displeasure at his antics today by peeing on him. He was not a happy camper. LOL! (Poor boy!)
October 26, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick, Annie, my deaf Jack, and I went to Nationals this year and hooked up with our usual gang of friends. Patrick's foster mother Alison stayed 2 doors down in the hotel. It took him about 30 seconds to recognize her. He was VERY happy to see her - and vice versa. It was a very feel good type of weekend. Fraser and Daphne were the first dogs to meet Patrick on a "morning walk" with their human mommy Denise. She recognized him right away! He thought Daphne was cute! We were able to spend time each day at the Rescue tent. The announcer made the announcement that Patrick was there so a crowd gathered. P was in his glory and very friendly to all. I think he was saying "Thank You" (in dog) to everyone. I asked his foster mom, Alison, to show him in conformation, which she did. Although he did not win anything, he did show well (I think). Plus, this was a way to have him come around full circle with Alison. She and Dr. Steinmetz got him back on all 4s so I think it was fitting that she showed him. Patrick entered some tickets for the raffle so he did come away with a beautiful little quilt and some Jack Snacks that he will share with the gang here at home. He and Annie did both events in the Doggie Fun Zone all three days. Neither won anything but they had a blast not winning. Patrick keeps improving on his time as he continues to run. He is a bit clumsy still. The very last evening at the hotel, a gentleman stopped to pat Annie's head. (She has never met a stranger.) Patrick growled at the man and had his hackles up. This made me think that the man may have reminded Patrick of the person who abused him so badly. I was quite surprised but told the man what his story was. He understood (thankfully). We are home now. He is outside rearranging the leaf piles that Richard so carefully piled up this past weekend. Annie is snoozing. We found an alarm clock that we did not know was missing! More later. I am sure Halloween will bring a new adventure.
October 4, 2004	From Patrick's New Owner, Olivia I have to believe that dogs have a sense of humor. I gave Annie and B.B. a bath Sunday. Patrick just about split a gut trying to jump into the sink because he wanted to have a bath. Well, he was pretty clean and I was going to wait and bathe him as he was pretty clean. But what the heck! So I took off his collar, picked him up, put him in the sink. As I began preparing the water and getting more shampoo nearby, he looked very regal for a short period of time. Then he jumped out of the sink onto the floor. At that time he began shaking himself off just like dogs do when they are soaking wet!!! He was totally dry! He ran around the house "shaking the water off"! I was laughing so very, very hard! The rest of the dogs gave him a very odd look. I call it his virtual bath.
September 27, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Well, Patrick has been stealing alarm clocks. Now the neighbors wake up before we do. LOL! Now we set them up high and across the room. No fun when you have to climb out of bed at 430 and look around for the thing as it is going off loudly and P-dog is still sleeping! The neighborhood children come to the back fence daily and call for Patrick so they can pet him. All the gang lines up for their share of pets. His leg continues to improve. He can now stand on it while he lifts the OTHER leg for a full shot. Before he could not do that. So he is now a guy again! This weekend he, Annie, and I went to the North American Working Terrier Trial in Taylorsville KY. He competed in conformation and won a blue ribbon. Not much competition in his class but nevertheless he did well. He and Annie both ran Lee Rabalko's Challenge Lure Course and the Top Gun Oval with no problems. Annie won 5th place in Veterans. He did not win anything but sure had a good time. The course did not seem to affect his leg at all. He also won 2 prizes in the rescue raffle including 20 lbs of dog biscuits. Won't last long in our house. (grin). He is now trying to establish dominance over my Border Collie Katie (a very patient and tolerant girl) but she is having none of it. His next outing will be at Nationals.
September 9, 2004	From Patrick's New Owner, Olivia Sweet Patrick continues to enjoy life in WV. He is becoming much more interested in spending time with Richard, his boys, and their friends. He has even taken to spending the night with Richard in the lazy boy when he falls asleep in front of the TV Patrick has even become an Atlanta Braves fan! ( Darn! I wanted him to be a Dodger Dog but they do not play here. LOL!) Patrick has not let his leg stop him from running, jumping and climbing - and getting us up in the morning when he thinks we have had enough sleep! I have body bruises from his running up the hall and flying through the air only to land hard and squarely on my very "fluffy" body! From time to time he launches himself off the back of the living room chairs if they are on his way somewhere or to get something. (We catch our breaths since we cannot seem to catch him before he does that.) He is now a tri-color blur racing around the backyard with my Border Collies Kate and Allie, and my #2 Jack, Annie. He does 90 degree turns, stops on a dime, and flies off the edge of the deck into the grass. This morning he did a "4 wheeled slide" out the dining room door to the deck rear end first while we were outdoors having coffee enjoying the fall-like weather and the "gang" was tussling inside. He has become constant motion! We do watch for his leg. He also seems to watch for his leg as well and does stop when he "feels" his leg is threatened. His tags tell us how fast or slow he is moving so we know whether or not to get out of the way. Days here can be pretty comical.
August 31, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick, Annie, my friends Laverne, Sam, and I trekked to Lancaster, Ohio on the 28th to the OH/PA trial. Lancaster is a very pretty area. (Sam and Laverne have Belgian Sheepdogs and have never seen a terrier trial since their AKC stuff is rather different.) We got there in time for Annie to race. Patrick went because Catherine Brown wanted him to meet people and see how well he has done. Some people recognized Patrick (and sometimes me) from the pictures on the website, were very impressed with his progress and him in general. And everybody knows Annie! The heat and humidity approached 100% by noon but since there were not a lot of dogs, the racing was done by about 1030am. What was left was conformation, go-to- ground, and a small talk by Catherine B. This is where she presented Patrick to the crowd. And did he EVER greet everyone! I had him on a 20' line and he raced around the center ring in total joy. I saw very happy people who saw a dog make it as a result of the efforts of some very determined people in New Jersey and Connecticut, and a lot of help financially from people all over. I also think the hopes and prayers of some people who could not contribute financially were just as helpful. Sam and Laverne watched the GTG a little while I watched conformation. I will try Patrick in this at the Bluegrass in September. Make a total fool of myself. Oh well, gotta start sometime. Patrick will be mortified! LOL! BTW, Patrick was able to show Catherine some leg muscle and that he can lift his left leg to pee now. I think he is proud of that. (So am I.) She gave me the new Russell Rescue, Inc. pin. It is really nice. I also believe she is very pleased with his progress. I also found that on longer trips I need to stop more often and let him walk. Otherwise he will drag his leg. I keep learning what to do and what not to do.
August 26, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick continues to enchant people. He is holding his own with the k-9 population here too. He is staking out some of Annie's (JRT #2, a 6 year old deaf girl) toys as his own now. Annie does not like that much but is allowing it most of the time. Patrick has also shown a little temper a couple of times. However, it was in his own defense. He did not start it. His pal Allie is a vision impaired Border Collie. She is a nipper. Many BCs do this naturally to keep the herd in check. She does this to Pete (JRT #1, a 12 year old) because she does not like him. He used to terrorize her as a pup. Now she is fully grown and started in on Patrick. He took about as much as he was willing and gave her grief right in front of me. It surprised Allie - and me! Before we could react Patrick was airborne and in my lap for protection! A very quick and nimble fellow! This morning while we were having coffee, Richard was doling out treats. Pete decided Patrick's treat was his and tried to take it from him. (BTW, Pete and Annie are puds.) Patrick kept his treat and nailed Pete to the ground not hurting him. Just pinned him down to let him know he was going to keep his treat and to get his own! Another very good thing is that he is beginning to lift his bad leg to pee. Most of the time he leans forward but is now beginning to lift that leg. It shows that he is gaining strength and mobility. Late at night Richard and I sit out on the deck to decompress and spend cool outside time with the dogs. Patrick climbs the picnic table and sits looking straight ahead with front paws crossed as if he is part of our conversation. Sooo cute!
August 20, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia I spent the day of the 19th taking Patrick to various places to allow him to meet some of the people I know who donated to his medical care and wanted to meet him. I wanted them to see the fruits of their labor so I had a day off during the week and spent it taking him around. We went to various libraries to meet and personally thank (in Patrick's case lick) people for their generosity. It was particularly heartening since this was the first year the library did not provide a raise for staff as well as suffering cutbacks. Several hundreds of dollars were donated either thru me or directly to Dr. Steinmetz or Russell Rescue, Inc. for Patrick's care. This picture is of my coworker John Boggess who is the library delivery person. Patrick really liked him. I also think he liked the fact that John gave him some money for McDonald's. LOL!
August 17, 2004	From Patrick's Owner, Olivia Patrick has started CGC (Canine Good Citizenship) class and does not like it much. He seems to know things but just plain does not want to do anything. LOL! He wants to play. I think he would be a good therapy dog because he is so gentle. A few weeks back I took him to a friend's home to play with her Belgian sheepdog who recently lost his lifetime mate. Sneakers was very depressed but when Patrick arrived they both played until Sneakers dropped from total exhaustion. Yet Patrick was still raring to go. Sneakers was unhappy to see him go home so Patrick and Sneaks will get together again this weekend. The fireworks will begin again! Patrick touches so many lives in a positive way it is very nice to watch. I must sound mushy but am trying to stand back and watch this boy who went through so much hell give so much love to everyone he meets. It is a true wonder.
August 3, 2004	From Patrick's New Owner, Olivia I have been a tad busy the last 2 days. One of my twin Border Collies, Katie, started having cluster seizures Sunday. Patrick freaked and took off for a dark place in the hallway when he witnessed the first one. He slowly came out to witness the next one and came cautiously closer and closer with each successive one. After about the 4th gran mal, he lay down next to Katie while she was seizing and nuzzled her while putting a paw on her until she stopped. He continued to do this each time she seized. It was so very touching and brought tears to my eyes. His sweetness shines through all the time. I can only hope that Katie subconsciously knew he was there for her (as were we all), and that his buddy was there in trouble and was trying to help. This morning he was cajoling her to play as she was doing better and more aware of her surroundings. Patrick is a precious gift. It is unimaginable to me that someone would have abused him so very badly!
August 1, 2004	From Patrick's New Owner, Olivia Well it finally happened. LOL! Richard awoke this morning to find one shoe. He later found the second out by the back fence. ROFLMAO!!! Not chewed either. The other dogs would not let on that it was Patrick who stole the shoe. Richard is getting fonder and fonder of Patrick as each day goes by. (What's not to love?) And Richard has stopped calling him "Josh". Patrick has taken to no longer sleeping in my room and now sleeps in the recliner next to Richard where he falls asleep. His grandchildren want to take Patrick home with them everytime they come over.
July 25, 2004	From Patrick's New Owner, Olivia Today we took out a metal measuring tape to measure his back and height. We were measuring him to record him with the JRTCA. He absolutely FREAKED OUT!!!!!!! Ran yelping with his tail between his legs and everything! Aw man!!! It took us forever to calm him down. Richard and I felt so very bad... He is OK now though. When Richard put the measuring tape away he calmed down. We knew he would have problems with a yardstick so that was not used. Next time we will use string.
July 17, 2004	From Patrick's New Owner, Olivia I would like to give a follow up to Patrick's story. I am Patrick's new Mommy. My name is Olivia. We all live in West Virginia. I was able to have Patrick on July 4th weekend when Norene and Doug Loranger transported him to me. What a sweet sweet boy. Wonderful temperament! He bonded very quickly with Annie and me - so much so that they were both "launching" themselves off me at 230a.m. in the hotel room having a blast while I was trying to sleep! LOL! Since we were at the WV Working Terrier Trial Patrick spent the next 2 days meeting lots and lots of people and dogs. He ran Lee Rabalko's top gun oval a few times and had a great time. A lot of people took him for walks and played with him. He won everyone over with his charm. One evening I took both to a friend's house for dinner. They played with two big black labs. Patrick did figure eights around the yard with Sadie while Annie "tormented" Reader (which means she got into a fight). Sadie and Patrick sought shelter indoors until we humans broke the fight up. Our return home was met by my mate Richard who took an instant liking to him but wanted to change his name to "Josh". Patrick now answers to Patrick, Josh, and PJ. The entire household is thrilled with him. I took him to the Vet clinic the next day to get him chipped and make intros. I gave them copies of the x-rays that Dr. Steinmetz provided along with his medical records. They were stunned at the damage and telling of abuse that he endured and wanted to know if the &*%$*&!+& (you-know-what) was in jail. We enjoy watching him run the yard with the Border Collies and Annie. The senior dogs tolerate him very well. My eldest Pokey now has a youthful spring in her 15 1/2 year old step since he pays attention to her. His next venture will be to meet the godparents from my job who donated funds for his medical care. Patrick seems happy. I know we are! Olivia Bravo
June 15, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Well, it's getting time for Patrick to move on to his new home. With a very heavy heart I must let him go. He has brought so much love, knowledge, and life into my home and I will miss him dearly. Yes, I must say I will worry about him every day and think of him all the time. My guys will miss him too because he has been so much fun -- lively, energetic and loving. I will worry as he travels to his new home but will feel better when I hear he has arrived. I know he is going to a great home and will fit right in but it's like giving up a child. I love him. I know he will be loved and will have great buddies to play with (if they can take him ha ha). Having Patrick has been a wonderful experience and I think everyone should bring a foster pet into their home. Jack Russell Rescue, Karen Vernon, Regina McHenry and others at the NJ shelter and vet clinic and especially Dr Shelly Steinmetz have given this dog a second chance at a wonderful life. He will have this now thanks to them and all their efforts to get him here and well. I also want to thank everyone who sent donations and kind words and prayers our way. Everything and everyone has meant a lot to me and has helped Patrick recover from his terrible ordeal. Today he is a happy healthy pup looking brightly ahead to all new adventures in his life. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Patrick also thanks everyone as well. A special thanks goes out to his new Mum Olivia who is welcoming a very special Jack Russell into her fold. Hopefully we will get updates from them and new pics from his new home. Best, Alison and Patrick
June 1, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Now that Patrick has settled in, he is getting WAY too big for his britches. He is constantly messing with the puppy. She can handle herself but he won't quit. He's nipping at her and pinning her under furniture. I pull him away and shake him a little and say "NO" but it falls on deaf ears (I KNOW he can hear). He gives me this goofy grin and keeps right on. He appears to take correction well but then ignores it... he's such a hard terrier. This poor dog was abused so I don't want to push him. I'm checking with my behaviorist on this because I don't want to send a devil incarnate to his adopting family... Alison
May 22, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Patrick won 2 ribbons in the companion class at the trial we attended last weekend. He walked all over with different people and had a blast. I have good news. Patrick has been adopted! He will stay here with me until the end of June and be in his new home on July 4th! I will miss him. Stay tuned for more pictures and updates.
May 10, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison WOW!!! What a dog.... we took him to the park in Meriden and he was mobbed by toddlers which was NOT good. Nothing bad happened but he was stressed... He met a HUGE Shepard mix and Patrick was a totally nut. He loved this dog. He so wanted to play. He also met a moppy dog and they did very well together too. Guess he has no problem with other dogs. We worked on "COME" and he is getting that too. He chased ducks and pigeons and is using the leg very well. He is special and he has a purpose here. Oh, so it might be weird to say that but I truly think this dog has a gift.
May 4, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Well Patrick got his "walking papers" so to speak, or should I say his "running papers". He is roaming around the house and is exploring all of the rooms ... up and down the stairs. He caught and killed a bottle of root beer and brought it outside. He then found a chew hoof and plunked himself on the sofa and gnawed on that for several minutes. He can come and go outside at will and likes to be outside. Right now he's clunking around in the attic! Kismet just ran up to check on him... He is very happy and I am sure will get tired quickly. When he first came here, he would go up and down the stairs with that badly broken leg stuck out like an airplane wing. After the wonderful work that Dr. Steinmetz did, Patrick is now using his leg to go up the stairs (not down yet but some of my others do the stairs on 3 legs too). He has partial range of motion and that is probably the best we can hope for. BUT before surgery, he had none. My next mission - besides the water therapy - is to try and get his toes working properly. His leg is a little shorter than the good one but you really wouldn't notice.
May 3, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Patrick went to Dr. Shelly's for another X-ray. After waiting on pins and needles (no pun intended), I was told that the X-rays came out GREAT! They look fantastic. He has healed well. Patrick can run and play and have fun now! Dr. Shelly says Patrick should do nothing really serious and/or crazy for 8 months to a year.
April 28, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison I am taking Patrick to the Connecticut trial on May 15-16 in case some of his local fans want to see him in person. I will be judging racing so we won't be available until the afternoon. Now that Patrick knows "SIT", every time he sees that I have a cookie, he sits and waits... he's so good. He will be going to see Dr. Shelly for his "discharge" x-ray and then start his water therapy. I will make sure he studies so that he will pass the test. He still doesn't know that he has a problem (just like a JRT) and it is still hard to keep him still. He was sick yesterday and got dirty so I had to bathe him...I only put a wee amount of water in the tub and pretty much spongebob-bathed him but he did ok. Not great, just tolerated it. He really wanted to LEAP from the tub which is hard to control because he IS a big terrier and doesn't know his strength or how clumsy he is. With all my other terriers, once you get them wet, they freak and streak through the house like crazy people.. he didn't. He didn't even roll around on my clean bed to dry off......maybe it's from being on the road for so long. I think it's almost sad although it is nice to have a normal acting post-bath dog in the house.
April 22, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Every day brings out more of Patrick's personality. I am slowly testing him to find his likes, dislikes, hates, fears, etc. He is doing wonderfully on this so far. He has become a lot less clingy to me and more independent and is very interested in the dirt, cracks and crevasses that he finds on his walks. We go a little bit farther each day. We are also working on some basic commands... Not "sit" because the back leg doesn't bend yet. He also is very clean in the house and knows to go outside when I say the word to him. He is a very smart dog and is still very puppy-like. It's a wonderful thing to foster a JRT - more people should volunteer.
April 20, 2004	From Patrick My Foster Mom, Alison, has received over 200 messages from all over the world wishing me well. Thank you very much for your kindness. I'm looking forward to getting my cast off next month and possibly starting some water therapy to help with my recovery. I hope I like water. Keep those messages coming!
April 16, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison Patrick passed the vacuum cleaner test yesterday. He was non plussed by the sound and just left the room. He also passed the nail clipping test. I only did the front feet because I am afraid of hurting the back leg - I will leave that for Dr. Steinmetz until Pat is well. Patrick is an awful shoe thief. He loves to play but keeping him quiet.... well, you know... I hate crating him but it's for his own good.
April 7, 2004	From Patrick's Foster Mom, Alison I can't wait for Patrick to be able to play with the other dogs but I think this is going to be a long time coming. He is so patient and quiet that it is amazing. What a wonderful dog he is! I can not imagine what would prompt anyone to harm such a loving animal. You can look in his eyes and see the "imp" in him. Please keep the messages coming. I read each and everyone to him.
April 3, 2004	From JRTCA Rescue Patrick will be going to his foster home today. He will be on strict crate rest, no jumping, no stairs and no clowning around. He is allowed to go for short walks in the back yard. His foster home is close to Dr. Steinmetz in case of complications with his leg. It will still be some time before he is ready for adoption. Soon, he will be receiving water therapy for his leg to help in his rehabilitation.

Patrick "sunbathing" as he begins his long road to recovery