Rudy's RB Story

We weren’t ready for another dog…

In June of 2014 our nearly 13-year-old Vizsla, Ginger, succumbed to an aggressive bone cancer. Two years prior, she ruptured her spine leaping through a fence after a squirrel. That summer, and on and off for the following two years, our home and family functioned as a canine convalescent home. Ginger often required support going outside but still a had strong will to live. She was especially close to my husband, Ted, who made the decision to prolong her life after that catastrophic injury. Although it broke our hearts to lose her, it was a bit of a relief to live without the constant worry.

After a couple weeks, our 13-year-old son, our least enthusiastic dog lover, began lobbying for another dog. We researched Vizsla rescue organizations. These organizations required lengthy applications, home visits and interviews. Their diligence was impressive. I would be surprised if human adoption organizations are as thorough. One rescue stood out, 2nd Chance Vizsla’s Rudy. We fell in love with his soulful eyes and heart-breaking story. 

Rudy’s front leg was crushed at the growth plate when he was pup and splayed out horribly. Due to criminal neglect, it was never treated. His former owners moved to Grand Junction and after developing seizures, ended up for sale on Craigslist. Fortunately, a sharp-eyed volunteer saw the post and rescued him. 

After a thorough exam, it was determined that his seizures were due to an undiagnosed grain allergy triggered by the low-quality food he was fed. On a grain-free diet, the seizures eventually ceased. His leg, however, was mangled beyond repair and had to be amputated. After our experience with Ginger, we felt quite equal to the challenge of caring for Rudy, especially after a video was posted of Rudy running like a three-legged maniac at a dog park.

Although we really wanted him, we were happy to be considered for any rescue who needed a home. When 2nd Chance called to say we were chosen for Rudy, my children and I were surprised and thrilled. Ted seemed reluctant and rushed, since it was only a month after we lost Ginger. A dog lover at heart, he put aside his grief and supported the adoption. 

Rudy’s foster was in Grand Junction, so we met halfway in Glenwood Springs. Waiting at a city park, a cinnamon colored, slightly chubby Vizsla came bounding up. Rudy won us over by immediately flipping on his back for a belly rub, a big canine grin on his face. That night, we made him sleep on some towels on the floor due to hotel regulations, but by morning, he’d wiggled into the bed and snuggled between my daughter and me.

Rudy was an integral part of our lives for the past eight plus years. Bon vivant, property patrol, and soul mate, he was the best snuggle buddy, dinner, and door alarm. Quickly losing his post-operative pudginess, he diligently patrolled the yard for pesky tree rodents. There wasn’t a creature on our block whose presence wasn’t monitored and announced by “the general” as our daughter dubbed him. Even after the adoption of the enigmatic Vizsla-Spaniel mix Sabrina (diminutive self-proclaimed alpha, overall insufferable diva, and anxious wench), Rudy took everything in stride. We truly believe he lived every day to its fullest. 

Self-appointed meal delivery monitor and emotional support animal, Rudy also had an uncanny ability to identify, and attempt to convert, all non-dog lovers. Most heartbreaking at the end was his ongoing love, affection, and vibrancy. A couple quotes from author Jon Katz come to mind when thinking about Rudy:

“Lifetime dogs intersect with our lives with particular impact; they're dogs we love in especially powerful, sometimes inexplicable, ways,” and “If you’re going to love animals and have a life with them, the odds are you’re going to lose them”. Thus, we mourn the loss of our true “lifetime dog”, Mr. Rudy.

See you on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, best friend.