Happy gotcha day for the 7th April Benny, 6 years since we adopted you from BRNGB, you were first seen when we helped as a volunteer transporter from Peterborough up to Wetherby where we met Christine your foster mum to be.
We instantly knew we had to adopt you, you were so loving and friendly and managed to eat a whole packet of M&S chicken fillets as we were told you were anxious and stressed so we were trying hard to make you feel relaxed.
On collection day you were pleased to meet our other bassets Douglas and Bruno and settled in well.
Although at times you were aggressive when putting on your harness or coat, after a vet visit he noted you had a partial cruciate ligament tear, which hadn’t been noted previously, but didn’t need surgery at present just rest and medication.
Not long after we adopted you you developed a glaucoma suddenly in your left eye and had to have your eye removed, although we were devastated you seemed to take it all in your stride and carried on as normal. We live near the beach and love going for walks. While the other 2 used to run off, you walked perfectly without a lead. About 18 months later overnight you developed another glaucoma and had your right eye removed, we didn’t think we could cope with a blind dog as our house is on different levels with lots of steps and stairs. But once you returned home and slept off the anaesthetic you began to map all the rooms and garden, yes you made mistakes and missed a step or two but now as time passes you have learnt to cope and carry on as normal.
You still jump up onto the sofa and chairs with no problems and get settled down with a blanket cuddling in to be as close as possible.
Since losing both eyes his demeanour has changed, he never shows any signs of aggression or resource guarding. He happily tries to join in a game of bitey face when the others are playing. He is the only dog which sleeps in our bedroom as I feel happier that no one can bully him if he wakes them up from being asleep. He’s just turned 12 years old this month, and he has been a real pleasure and we are so proud he has managed to cope living with us and the 2 other bassets having lost both eyes and long may he continue to amaze us all.
Love from Carol & Benny
