Hi,
I have an English Setter rescue story that begins sounding like a failure, but is a great success!
I contacted the Michigan Setter Rescue person listed on the website, and she gave me the name of a lady in Northern Michigan who had an 11 month old, tri-color Llewellyn - exactly what I wanted.
I contacted the woman and drove 4 hours to pick her up. The woman who had Shaina (as I call her), told me that she was a real sweetie, but was hard of hearing. She had her shots and was essentially housebroken. When I had originally called the rescue coordinator, I told her that I did not want a deaf dog. As soon as I saw Shaina, I fell in love. (I had another ES who passed away 3 years ago and I love the breed!). I realized immediately that Shaina was probably more than a "little" deaf, but I could not say no. The other surprise was that I would be Shaina's fourth owner and that she had not been spayed, despite having been in the Humane Society for a little while.
Shaina and I got into the car and began our journey together. The first day, I found that Shaina was not housebroken at all. The second day, she went into heat. Despite our inauspicious beginning, I have hung in there with her and she with me. I have leaned all about doggie diapers (she has now been spayed), how to housebreak a "teenage" dog, crating, and how to train a deaf dog.
Shaina is fully deaf but smart as a whip. I found a deaf dog website and the folks there have become great allies in our development. Shaina, though being medicated for anxiety temporarily, understands many signs now and is stubbornly obedient. And yes, a beautiful, intelligent, agile and sweet dog who is a great companion. Despite her challenges, she has a keen nose and her field instincts are great. She sets and points beautifully. My only regret is that when we walk in fields, she has to be leashed so she can't quarter like she would. She probably could flush with the best of them!
She and I have lots of adventures to look forward to in the future. Thanks to the organizers of the ES Rescue website for helping Shaina and I to get together!
Celia and Shaina
Ann Arbor, MI