CRYSTAL was found in a dreadful state with her daughter, Carly, who was, fortunately, not in quite such a bad condition. Despite their ordeal, both dogs have wonderful temperaments.

Aoife, their fosterer in Ireland said. Crystal is craving affection but is very good when left alone. Both Crystal and Carly were excellent in the shower. They were as good as gold.

Crystal is very relaxed but her coat is not great at all, very brittle with rough patches on her legs and nose. It could possibly be a flea allergy but I cannot see any fleas or tell- tale signs. I would think it is a combination of poor nutrition and sleeping on a rough surface. Her tail is badly matted but it is like there is tar or something stuck to it and it did not come off after washing. I will try clip off the matts but she could do with a good groom. She will need definitely need veterinary attention and will not be re-homable for a while.

She needs some TLC but she is so sweet, poor thing.

From Andy when she first arrived with him:-

I suspect she's always been down the pecking order, and seems to lack confidence, but last night she came over to for a fuss and even gave a tiny nudge when we stopped. She has got a lovely temperament, is great on the lead, and is house trained. She willl make someone a lovely dog.

Hopefully with a good diet, the right remedies and a little time her coat will improve. We are looking forward to seeing her develop mentally and physically.

Crystal has now been in foster care with Andy and Val for several weeks and has received all the TLC she could take. She saw the vet who thought it was a type of mange (her immune system would have been compromised by the cruel treatment she must have received). She has been on treatment for her skin which is improving daily. Her nose is still a bit pinkish but that is starting to improve now too.

Apart from the medication from the vets, Crystal has also been on flower essences and homeopathic remedies and the improvement is remarkable both pysically and mentally.

Andy and Val took her to a local country park partly to test her recall but, although they had a nice long walk, it was impossible to test her recall because she would not move more than 50 yards away, was not tempted by other dogs, and not even by a lake full of ducks. She is also cat friendly.

Although she still has a little way to go she has now gone to a very loving forever home in Surrey where they will continue with her treatments and, most importantly, will love her to bits and will continue with the cuddles she has become accustomed to.

UPDATE on SHEPPY from Barbara, her forever mum
 
Sheppy (originally Crystal) is absolutely lovely, is doing really well and has really settled in.
 
She has had many visitors who think she is lovely, as we do.
 
Family and friends say she looks different, looks content. Her tail and nose continue to improve.

SHEPPY'S FIRST CHRISTMAS
 
Barbara says "Sheppy is such a lovely dog and she gets so much attention from people. She absolutely loves going out for her walks. Sheppy also loves her food very much! She does not like to drink water but we have found other ways for her to have fluid thanks to advice from people! Her tail is looking good and her fur has improved amazingly. Sheppy has just had her first Christmas with us and she is a joy and gives us so much pleasure".

 

©2006 Irish Retriever Rescue UK