Our new stray

[Sam I Am]

Does that mean Demps and Elsie have to be treated? We don't have fleas in our part of the world so not familiar with what you do.

[_whits_]

It could be that he was growling because he's sick and/or in pain. I can't imagine the mats in his hair and worms in his belly are comfortable. Has he has a full check at the vet? The mats could be covering/causing some painful skin issues.

So glad he has you to look after him now. If you keep him you'll probably have a faithful and dedicated farm hand in payment.

[Hillscreek]

Inclined to think if you are able and willing a complete vet check is in order. Either determine immunity by titer check (V expensive as gttd says) or give a set of booster shots. Proof of rabies shot is required in PA. Don't know about up your way.

Removing his matted coat would be a good idea also. Sometimes if the mats are close to the skin they are very painful. Sometimes the only thing to do then is to cut or even shave his coat down to the skin. This may have to be done under sedation.Then you can check his skin for sores or infections or whatever. His coat will grow back and he will be comfortable again.

[Dempsy's Mom]

It will be at least another week before I can give this dog my full attention.  I have been keeping them as separate as possible (this morning we had a little excursion) but for the most part I think we are ok.  Rabies - yes that is a huge concern - along with the fleas, the worms, and everything else a stray dog brings with it.  Since no one is stepping up to the plate and claiming him - I guess. 

 

When I first saw him I thought about the infested globs of hair.  Who would help me with cleaning him up?  I will have to make some calls.  It will be quite a chore to get him to where he supposed to be with grooming and health.  Just got home from planting.  Need to make supper yet.  But I wanted to post these pictures.

 

 

 

PS I have never licensed a dog. ? Never get notices. Petco is 150 miles.

Edited May 18, 2014 by Dempsy's Mom

[_whits_]

What a beautiful boy. He sure seems to be fitting in with your pack. Thank you again for taking him in and giving him a chance in life. I can't imagine the pressure you're under taking care of a farm. Hopefully he'll come to lessen that pressure with his herding skills. It might be good you can't get him into a vet immediately (as long as he doesn't have any life-threatening concerns). It gives him a chance to adjust and get comfortable with you before a stranger starts poking and prodding him. Please let us know how the vet appointment goes when you do get him in. And thanks for continuing to update us on Wonder. I'd fly out to SD and help clean him up if I could, sorry you have to bear the burden but bless you for taking it on. 

 

I don't think many rural areas require licenses; I know the small town I grew up in didn't. The first time I ever had to license a dog was when I moved to a big city in Virginia, and in this city they don't fine you if they find out your dog isn't licensed, they just make you pay the licensing fee (and ensure your dog has a current rabies vaccine). All states, towns, jurisdictions are different though.

[Hillscreek]

Lovely pics. Wonder is a good looking dog that's for sure. Looking at his build and tail am thinking Collie plus Retriever?

I'm sure you are doing all you can for him and taking care for yourself and the other dogs. Hope you can keep him but know it will quite a big expense to get him the care he may need. 

For now he's getting food and rest in a safe place and that is important for his well being - emotional and physical.

 

We are required to license our dogs here even though fairly remote -50 miles to Petco. But some people don't bother and there's no local animal control to enforce it.

Edited May 18, 2014 by Hillscreek