Ready for Rudy? Rudy is a handsome, three-and-a-half year old Golden boy. His previous owner loved her big boy very much; however he proved to be too much dog for her and needed more time and training than she could provide. She wrestled with the thought of surrender, but felt it was in Rudy's best interest to be placed in the most appropriate home. She fondly described him as "loyal and loving and he really loves having his belly rubbed. Rudy does best with consistency and firm rules."

Rudy was seen by the YGRR veterinarian. Overall he was a healthy dog, but tested positive for Lyme disease. As treatment, Rudy was placed on an antibiotic therapy of Doxycycline. Riverview bound, he settled in beautifully and flourished with consistent handling. The staff knew it would be a short visit for reliable Rudy and he would soon have a forever home!

The Adoption Coordinator was looking for a family that could devote the time, training, and exercise this very strong, but lovable boy needed. An adoptive family with previous dog experience was called. This special family lovingly raised their Golden Retriever for thirteen years. Unfortunately, their beloved family member passed away and they were once again ready for a new good-as-gold companion. All went well at the scheduled adoption appointment. Rudy knew he would soon be calling this adoring family his own! Recently his new family reported that Rudy is doing great! His children love him and love playing with him. He is walked daily, plays in his fenced-in back yard, and receives fair and consistent handling. They are all very happy! And now Rudy's former owner can have the comfort of knowing she made an unselfish, loving decision in the best interest of Rudy.

Elvis is a striking ten-year-old Golden gentleman. He is an exceptional dog who touched the hearts of everyone at Riverview. Sadly, his story is one of poor ownership and care. At some point, Elvis' owner decided she no longer wanted her dogs. Rather than going through the proper channels and contacting any number of rescue agencies or services (such as the local animal control officer, a shelter, or a breed/rescue organization such as YGRR*) this callous owner simply disowned her dogs. The dogs ran free like strays, were not properly fed, and did not receive yearly medical treatment or up-to-date health care. When allowed indoors, Elvis lived in a dark, damp garage. What a shame for this sweet Golden boy!

Quite often the Animal Control Officer in a neighboring community found Elvis and Rocky, Elvis' brother, roaming the streets. This attentive Animal Control Officer convinced the dogs' owner to surrender them since she no longer wanted the dogs and the responsibility of ownership. The Animal Control Officer then contacted YGRR knowing we would find the most fitting, loving and caring homes.

Elvis was admitted and seen by the YGRR veterinarian. He was given a complete geriatric workup. He was thin upon examination and anemic. Elvis was found to be heartworm positive and have mild hip-dysplasia on his left side. Additionally, he was in need of neutering, had two fractured incisors extracted, and was given a dentistry. Finally, our special boy was brought up-to-date on his vaccinations and tattooed. Elvis came to Riverview where he spent time resting after being treated successfully for heartworm disease. He was found to be a gem of a dog. It was a pleasure to be in the company of this sweet, senior dog who loved people and other dogs! Handsome, gentle Elvis soon became a staff favorite. (Unfortunately, his brother Rocky was found to be in renal failure upon entry to the program and could not be saved.)

When Elvis was ready, he was placed on the Active Adoption List. He deserved a special, quiet and loving home where he would receive all the attention he had been deprived of for so many years living in the garage! Sure enough he found the perfect home! A repeat adopter was waiting for just the right senior dog that would fit in with her family and who would provide companionship to her rescue Golden Amber Jane, YGRR #3131. Elvis was the perfect match. Both dogs get along beautifully! Now Elvis enjoys relaxing, comfortable days fit for a king where he receives "star treatment" either snuggling up on the sofa with his Golden sister or enjoying the flowers in his beautiful and securely fenced yard. Ladies and Gentlemen, Elvis has left the building.

*All Golden Retrievers who are surrendered and enter the YGRR program receive first-rate care. The dogs are seen by the YGRR veterinarian for a health evaluation and given appropriate, supportive treatment. Then Goldens come to Riverview where they live in excellent, pristine conditions with constructive exercise, turn-out yards, consistent dog handling, and socialization. This safe haven allows further assessment and evaluation of each dog.