Fudge

Fudge
by Joanne Schneider

Six years ago I bought my first Japanese Chin, a young adult who had been a show ring hopeful. I named him Kanzi. It didn't take me long to realize that this was a very special breed, one I can't imagine being without. Last year his breeder died and there was concern expressed about finding proper homes for the older dogs. After all -- how many people want to adopt an 11 year old dog. I didn't hesitate a bit to offer to take in Fudge who just HAPPENS to be the father of my Kanzi.

Dear Fudge came to me very shortly. I didn't know about his health issues when I said I'd adopt him, but that really didn't matter. I wanted him to finish his life out here with his son. His teeth needed cleaning which was no biggie. He has a grade iv heart murmur which means I need to keep an eye on him -- how well he does in the summer heat, how he's breathing, etc. So far he has not needed to start on heart meds. He is also hydrocephalic. I guess that's why his head is shaped slightly "off", and we know it's responsible for his balance problems. He is also arthritic and his back legs almost seemed underdeveloped.

When Fudge came the first thing that I noticed was that he wanted to be with me all the time. He followed me everywhere and seemed to need the reassurance of having me in his sight. He had spent most of his life in a kennel and he was just eating up the people time. As he realized he was "free", that he wasn't going back to the kennel -- or maybe the novelty had worn off -- I would find he was content to be a bit farther away. I did notice that he stands a lot. Since I hear a slight groan from him sometimes when I pick him up I know that pressure on his chest creates problems for him -- apparently he's learned that by standing that pressure can be avoided.

He didn't play with the other Chin -- well, given a choice he STILL doesn't play a lot, but then hey, he's not a kid anymore. But his very stiff-legged slow gaits have been replaced by animated trots and some running. He's obviously very happy and his back legs have strengthened considerably. I've noticed that steps are not nearly the obstacle that they were when he arrived and his activity level has increased as his movement has become more comfortable.

I'd like to say this: When people think about adopting a dog they often rule out the oldsters. I don't blame those who are concerned that their time with their new friend might be limited. But then, even if we get a puppy we have no guarantees, right? I'll admit I probably would not have offered to take Fudge if I didn't have a soft spot for him based on his relationship to Kanzi. But Fudge has shown such a gentle love back and has been such a joy that I would encourage anybody who is considering an oldster to go for it. They've got a lot of love to give!