Dodger

In the spring of 2003, an adult, black Labrador Retriever was picked up as a stray and taken to the Garrett County Animal Shelter. He had been badly injured, although the injury was not recent. His left rear leg had been crudely amputated below the hock, leaving him with the white bones and raw flesh exposed.

Due to space limitations, most shelters would have to euthanize a dog that had such a major injury. The Lab's chances were not good.

However, when the HART Rescue Coordinator visited the shelter, she was struck by the Lab's soulful eyes. She found the Lab to have a very affectionate and positive nature, with not a growl or whine of complaint while being examined. She gave him the name "Dodger" because it was clear that he had dodged some terrible danger. She knew that Dodger needed immediate veterinary care.

The veterinarian amputated Dodger's leg almost at the hip. To assist him in the recovery process, the HART coordinator fostered him at her home to allow him the time to heal and learn to function with only three legs.

Dodger healed completely, maintaining his wonderful disposition! He soon was ready to be adopted by someone who would love him for his special nature and physical circumstances. And that's exactly what happened! He was adopted by an equally wonderful family, one who understood what it meant to be disabled because one of its members also has a disability. Dodger found his 'forever home' and shares frequent camping trips and has even learned to swim with only three legs! This time, Dodger really did it! He dodged a sad end, permanently.

> John Kerry