I am trying desperately to keep up with the advancing spring…in January! Crocuses, hyacinth, narcissus…even ceanothus and mid-season tulips are pressing up.
We only had two days of mild frost this “winter.” The roses were still blooming when we did our annual pruning.
There is no stopping the youthful march of spring now – either in the garden or in the dogs’ Senior Yard.
Affectionately referred to as Sugar Shack Acres, this is where dogs that are unable or unlikely to be adopted due to their extreme special needs live in their own little house and large shaded yard, surrounded by love. Since 2012, Red has reigned over this sanctuary section of our rescue.
At the age of seven, Red and his cohort of feral friends roaming a property in Oregon were rounded up by cowboys, put in a barn, and adopted out to an unprepared public. Turning a feral dog into a family dog is not for the faint of heart – especially a dog that has lived wild for seven years. Accounts are that most of the dogs found their way back to the wild. The woman who adopted Red quickly understood what she had gotten herself into and surrendered him to us where he would be safe.
It took a long time for Red to feel comfortable. There is still a part of him that is very much wild. If given the opportunity, he would still run. But now – at the age of 15 – he has found peace and contentment (and cookies!) in the company of like-minded dogs.
Like winter, they had settled into a gentle quiet. And then…
Over the past month, a series of boisterous youngsters sprang up like spring bulbs to disturb his tranquility. First, Brie – a one-year-old girl with an old lady problem (ectopic ureter).
Then, Laila – a ten-month-old hydrocephalus (water on the brain) girl. She is blind – but that doesn’t slow her down one bit.
And now CoCo – full of spunk and play, hanging out while she waits for her forever family to take her home.
They have recharged the visiting Ladybug….
and then exhausted her.
While Red and his fellow seniors, Violet,
Miller,
and Tana must be wondering…who let the pups in!
It’s inevitable Red;
spring will come whether you are ready or not – so embrace it and enjoy!
Gardens For Goldens 
I love them all especially when lady big comes to visit
This is such a nice tribute to Red. Is this when we say, “spring is in the air”. But wait, it is on January.
Look around and tell the plants, bees, and mosquitoes!
Love all the playful pup pics!
We remember seeing Red years ago when we adopted one of the senior Goldens. So nice to see him now again. Thanks for this post. So love HBGRR. XOXOX from Corie and Poe.
Amazing stories! I cannot even imagine the lives the pups lived while feral and on their own! How heartwarming it is to hear of their loving, rambunctious and joyful daily lives. I loved the photos, of the pups, and your gorgeous garden. Spring is indeed beginning to pop!
Love the dogs in Sugar Shack Acres! I love cleaning their room and beds. I know they like it too, as they all race in to find a fresh bed after I clean. And of course, cookies!! I love to spoil them all! Red is king!!!!!