One of the true joys I feel as a pet blogger is knowing I can make a difference by being able to reach so many people and sharing touching messages of hope. One of my all-time favorite animal rescue oganizations is Hope for Paws, based in Los Angeles. And whenever I am given the chance to share a rescue story such as this, I know I am making a difference by ignighting the kindness within us all.
A very sweet German Shepherd, named Biggie, was rescued back in the Fall by Eldad Hagar (Hope for Paws) with the help of Annie Hart Executive Director of the Bill Foundation. If you missed the video, please take a moment to watch it.
How is Biggie doing now? He is looking mighty darn happy and healthy in his foster home.
Biggie and Riley
Riley, Biggie and Hannah
I had the chance to chat with Eldad over the phone and he let me in on a memory that was evoked during the rescue of Biggie. First he explained the overall situation.
"I got a call about Biggie while I was out of town, and I knew that I needed to rescue this dog as soon as possible. I called my friend Tiffany Norton from Coastal German Shepherd Rescue, and she offered to take him right away.
As soon as I landed I took a taxi home, moved my luggage from the taxi to my rescue car, and headed out. I called Annie Hart from Bill Foundation while I was on my way, and she offered to join me."
Since Biggle was down on a concrete river gully, they had to find a way to get down to the the dog. Eldad explained their strategy.
"We spoke to neighbors, got a ladder (a broken one, so I used my Lucky Leash to hold the two pieces together). It took a while, but I was able to convince Biggie to come to me. It was just a beautiful thing to see how he melted in my arms."
(Biggie had a horrible flea infestation and flea allergy)
"Then the team of volunteers from above pulled him up. This is one of the poorest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, so it was really heartwarming to see a bunch of people take the time to help us out."
It was at the end of the "Operation Rescue Biggie" that Eldad remembered something from his childhood.
"When I was going down the ladder, I didn't think about it too much... I had a mission in mind, and it was to go and get the dog. Once the rescue was done I had to go up, and as the ladder started shaking, I had a childhood flashback.
When I was six-years-old, I climbed on a really tall ladder, and when I got to the top - I fell. Luckily, I managed to land without breaking any bones, HOWEVER as I hit the ground, I bit my tongue really bad. I walked home bleeding pretty badly, I was rushed to the doctor with a hole in my tongue, and the doctor's instructions were: antibiotics, pain killers, and a strict diet of soft boiled eggs and ice cream for two weeks.
This fall as a child created a fear from heights, but I am working on dealing with it, and Biggie really helped."
Biggie is doing great, and this is what Coastal German Shepherd Rescue
said about him:
"Currently Biggie can be a little shy, but after only a minute or two of introductions, he becomes a flawless companion. This guy is a quiet lover, a gentle friend and a subtle soul. He is kind, noble, adoring, affectionate and is seeking someone who wishes to receive and give the same. Wrap your arms around him and you will feel him melting in your embrace. Hold him by his cheeks and you will see his love peering into your eyes. Biggie is very attentive on a walk, is always aware of your needs and will want to be by your side if at home or away. Biggie isn't looking to set the world on fire anymore, just your heart."
If you're interested in adopting Biggie or learning more about what they do, please contact Coastal German Shepherd Rescue's website or Facebook page.
And be sure to follow the rescue efforts of Hope for Paws through their website and Facebook page.
Your right he looks so sweet and innocent. And he seems happy now. How old is he?
Posted by: Veterinary Imaging Consultant | January 03, 2013 at 11:47 PM
will he grow hair again?
Posted by: Louise | January 08, 2013 at 10:18 PM
I believe so. I'll have to find out. Sweet dog!
Posted by: Lisa Taron (Pet Blog Lady) | January 09, 2013 at 07:12 AM
Very insightful - thanks.
Posted by: dog walker new york | January 17, 2013 at 11:51 AM