Spotlight on Senior Dalmatians
“BAXTER”
by Debbie White
Although Baxter was never a champion or an obedience dog, he is special in his own, unique way. Baxter came to us as a rescue in 1995 with almost every health issue known to dogs. He had crystals and a bladder infection, was not neutered, is over-sized for a Dal, had bad skin, was 20 lbs. over weight, is flat footed and epileptic. Between Chris Jackson (Longlast Kennels, who worked with Dal rescue) and I, we managed to get everything under control. With proper diet, exercise and medication, we were able to get Baxter to the point where he looked like a respectable young Dal. We decided to foster him but no one wanted him because he was 'too big'. Well, when I found out that his birthday was the same as my Mom's, who had just passed away, he was ours forever!
We never believed that, with all of Baxter's health issues, he would ever live until 15 years of age. He is a unique personality and loves life. He is a fighter, through all of his trials and tribulations. In his prime, he was a wonderful spokesdog for Dalmatian Rescue, collecting money in his beggar's cup which was attached to him around his neck and under his chin. The kids LOVED stuffing dollar bills in there and receiving a kiss from Baxter. He was always SO silly and all he wanted was love and attention.
Although age has slowed him down and his eyes and ears don't work as well as they used to, drop a kibble into a bowl and watch him RUN across the backyard and up the deck stairs. He is STILL a chowhound. His favorite thing now is to explore the yard and to, now and then, go for short walks or rides in the car. Yes, he is an old man and sleeps soundly but, at his age, who wouldn't!?!