Kaydin, who had been living with his family along the coast of Oregon since he was four months old (he was five and one-half years old when he came to live with us), lost his home, his family, a playmate, and everything he has ever known.
When we picked him up his skin showed evidence of “hot spots”, he had fleas, and he desperately needed a bath (keep the bath thought in mind).
In addition, it appeared that his left cranial cruciate ligament had torn at some time in the past. Although Kaydin was compensating well with his injury it was clear that he needed to be seen by a vet and his leg examined for a possible TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) surgery or a brace. Following his exam it was determined that a TPLO would be in his best interests and Dr. Matt Lawrence, Crater Animal Clinic, did the TPLO surgery on November 3rd, just ten days after he arrived at our home.
He is doing well after the surgery although it was discovered that his bones are exceptionally soft and the healing process may take longer than expected. Although we can’t be certain, Kaydin’s diet was probably deficient in many essential minerals and vitamins.
Did you remember to keep the thought about a bath in mind? I asked Catherine if I could give Kaydin a bath before he had surgery, he REALLY needed a bath. After a moment’s thought Catherine told me to bring him by her house and we could give him a bath there. With five Newfies, Catherine is well prepared. After three and a half hours, Kaydin had had a bath, nail trim, blow dry, and hair trim. Talk about one handsome but very tired dog! Thanks Catherine. He looked great!
Kaydin is a very warm and loving Newf. He went through separation anxiety and is dealing with health issues but despite all that he wants to love and be loved.
His ability to drink water and get as much on the floor as he does in his tummy is amazing.
Kaydin snuggles and loves to have his tummy rubbed. He doesn’t bark unless someone comes to the door and he is getting better about “expressing himself” (he would howl mournfully) if we left the room.
Kaydin celebrated his 11th birthday June 29, 2016. It took him almost two years to get to the point where he seeks out contact and looks forward to meeting his "friends." He still is uncomfortable in large crowds. For a Newfoundland, Kaydin is considered a "Senior" (a Newfie older than 7 years).
As Kaydin has aged he has developed some health issues. He takes an adrenal supplement and lately has started taking a thyroid medication for hypothyroidism. His trachea has lost much of its elasticity so his bark is more of a raspy wheeze but vigourous in his attempt to protect us. Indoors or outside Kaydin will position himself betwen his family and visitors. He is not agressive with visitors he is simply saying "I'm keeping an eye on you."
Pictures of Kaydin (below).
The Pacific Northwest Newfoundland Club has done a wonderful job in rescuing Kaydin and getting him the care that he needed.
Newfoundlands are a gentle, loving dog. They are not aggressive but are very protective of their owners and children.
The Newfoundland Club of America is a wonderful resource of information about Newfoundlands. Other sources of information include the Dog Owner's Guide and also The American Kennel Club.
Visit the Pacific Northwest Newfoundland Club for information about Newfoundlands and much more.
Newfoundlands are not for everyone. Newfies have a lot of hair, a double coat (a soft downy under-coat and a course over-coat) that needs to be brushed and picked up and they can be droolers. If slobber, mixed with a little hair, stuck to the wall about six feet from the floor bothers you please consider another breed. If you can take "pride" in your Newfie's slinging slobber and drool that does a double loop around his muzzle when he shakes his/her head then you may qualify to have a Newfie as a part of your family.
If you think you may want a Newfie in your family please consider a Rescue Newfoundland. Newfoundland Rescue is one organization dedicated to the preservation and the advancement of the Newfoundland. The Pacific Northwest Newfoundland Club may have rescue Newf's available to qualified homes. Newfies are great dogs but they are not for everyone. Newfies want to be a part of your family and not left outdoors or in a kennel with an occasional visit. Newfoundlands will change your life with their love.
Read more about Rescue Newfoundlands.
