Come for the politics, stay for the snark.

People identifying as christian while ignoring christ and his teachings is a strange thing indeed.

This must be what justice looks like, not vengeful, just peaceful exuberance.

Someone should tell Republicans that violence is the last refuge of the incompetent, or possibly the first.

Do not shrug your shoulders and accept the normalization of untruths.

Good lord, these people are nuts.

SCOTUS: It’s not “bribery” unless it comes from the Bribery region of France. Otherwise, it’s merely “sparkling malfeasance”.

Is it negotiation when the other party actually wants to shoot the hostage?

Authoritarian republicans are opposed to freedom for the rest of us.

If you still can’t see these things even now, maybe politics isn’t your forte and you should stop writing about it.

Republicans are radicals, not conservatives.

One way or another, he’s a liar.

Let me eat cake. The rest of you could stand to lose some weight, frankly.

Also, are you sure you want people to rate your comments?

Lick the third rail, it tastes like chocolate!

Dear legacy media: you are not here to influence outcomes and policies you find desirable.

It is possible to do the right thing without the promise of a cookie.

At some point, the ability to learn is a factor of character, not IQ.

Live so that if you miss a day of work people aren’t hoping you’re dead.

“Perhaps I should have considered other options.” (head-desk)

Republicans don’t lie to be believed, they lie to be repeated.

Let there be snark.

If you’re gonna whine, it’s time to resign!

Republicans want to make it harder to vote and easier for them to cheat.

He wakes up lying, and he lies all day.

You are here: Home / Pet Blogging / Dog Blogging / John and Walter’s Excellent Vet and Human Doctor Adventure

John and Walter’s Excellent Vet and Human Doctor Adventure

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Spent the day on the phone with the real estate attorney and getting a locksmith and DOING MORE ADULT SHIT, so I got behind on things and didn’t get around to getting my tetanus shot when I wanted to, so I had to combine our doctor visits. I went and picked up the dog (I named him Walter, after Walter Matthau, which I will explain later), and gave him a long bath with a shower hose. I used the Natural Chemistry flea and tick shampoo that my dogs and my parent’s dogs just love, and gave him a good scrub down and got rid of layers and layers of filth. He immediately looked better an I got a chance to get a good look at his coat.

After I got him cleaned up and dried off, mom was kind enough to sit with him at her house (we used their hose because Thurston would have been freaking out at my house and I think Walter needs calm for now) while I went home and showered. Threw some comfy blankets in the rear of the car, and off we went:

carride

We went to my doctor first, and rushed in and got a tetanus and pertussis shot. I had called ahead and said I would have a dog in the car, so I just left Walter in the car with the AC on. Then went and picked up some more baccitracin w/ zinc, which took longer than it should have because the pharmacists demanded to see Walter after I explained what happened. After that we headed to the vets.

It was packed when we got there, and everyone looked horrified at his condition and looked at me like I was some kind of super villain, so I told everyone the story and could see all the people there mentally grabbing pitchforks and torches to go after the guy who did this to Walter. Decided since I was sure Walter still had fleas and tapeworm that we would just sit outside until everyone was done. We sat under a shade tree and Walter lay down next to me, which was a first because up until now all I had ever seen him do was pace nervously (although I think he was smiling in the back seat picture above).

waltergrass

They finally called us in, and first things first- Walter is a trooper. Just a good natured and gentle dog, and very trusting despite what he has been through. And he has very expressive eyes and eyebrows We weighed him, and he was only 63 lbs, when he should probably be around 100.

I told them the story and the background info I had, and told them I just wanted “the works” to get the old fella back up on his feet and healthy so we can find his forever home. They poked and prodded and did all sorts of tests on his hips and joints, and he never complained and was just amazing- better than any of my animals except Lily. In fact, he is a male, older, bigger Lily when it comes to temperament. He smiled the whole way through:

walterthebrave

So here are the details, starting from head to toe:

1.) His eyes are those of an older dog, perhaps 10-11 was the vets best guesstimate.

2.) His teeth and gums are in good shape, and he has this adorable underbite with these teeny tiny teefus that you can make out in the picture above, and the nurse quipped he has very kissable lips. His breath could use a little work, but I got some dental treats that should fix that right up and much of it might be caused by the digestive issues created by the neglect.

3.) His left ear has a mild hematoma (think cauliflower ear on a wrestler), and his right ear has had multiple hematoma that makes the earhole very, very tiny and really hard to clean, but he let them anyway despite being in pain. His left ear was “yeasty,” so they treated that, and the right ear had a different type of infection, so they inserted a tube and gave him a different treatment.

4.) Despite my bath, he was still littered with fleas, so we treated him for worms and gave him a nextguard flea treatment. His coat, overall, is not too bad and should grow back nicely. He doesn’t have a typical lab coat- it is a thicker hair, so he is mixed with something but I do not know what, but he has a very “houndy” Roman nose. He has a couple of fatty tumors that dogs just get with old age, but they are nothing to worry about.

5.) His nails were a mess, so we cut them.

6.) No anal gland issues.

7.) He has three arthritic knees, but his hips are fine (which was my main concern because he walks so gingergly).

8.) His bloodwork was, for his condition, great. He was anemic from the fleas sucking the life out of him and the malnourishment, but everything was fine or within normal bounds for what he had gone through. Most important, kidney and liver functions were good, and, drumroll…. NO HEARTWORM!

In summary, not too damned shabby. Because his bloodwork was so good, I decided we should give him some pain meds to make him more comfortable and he got an injection of rimadyl and some chewable tabs for the next week. Also, I asked if they would give him some antibiotics just to clear up anything we might not know about, and since his digestive system is probably messed up, we went for a two week shot instead of daily tablets, which was more expensive but I think a much better option. We have a checkup next Friday when we will do the rabies shots and other vaccinations. We didn’t want to give them to him today because we wanted a week of good food and water, walks, and to get his immune system back up.

All in all, he is in remarkable shape considering, and I parked my car on the street and quarantined him in my garage with all sorts of blankets. I have some samples of good prescription high protein prescription food for a couple days, and I am going to go to Petco tomorrow and get him some chewbones, good canned food, and a nametag and a collar worthy of the dignified old guy. All in all, this is why this is the best vet in the world- they not only worked on him for an hour and a half primping and preening him (an hour of which was after closing), but every nurse stayed just because they wanted to. And it only came to $420.63, which I think is downright amazing.

Now, the important part. This is where I decided to name him Walter. I couldn’t decide on a name (I had just been saying “hey buddy,”) and we were just going to put him on the chart as “stray” until I came up with a name or homed him, when my favorite nurse went on about his kissable lips and I got an awesome picture:

handsomeoldguy

IMMEDIATELY after that picture, he turned and looked at me and shot me this goofy yet also lugubrious sly look and instantly reminded me of Walter Matthau.

And thus he became Walter. Commenter Debit- email me. Trust me, you want this dog. He was made for a couch or a nice dog bed on the front porch. Really pretty remarkable dog considering what he has been through.

And that was my day, which ranks up there as a pretty good one and I’m glad I can share.

Reader Interactions

184Comments

  3. 3.

    JPL

    Thanks for the update, since some of us were a tad concerned. Now I have to hunt down a tissue.
    Your a good man!

  4. 4.

    scav

    Walter’s clearly got charm down to his bones and grace under pressure. And all hail to those that help him along.

  6. 6.

    Danil

    “I named him Walter, after Walter Matthau, which I will explain later”

    That dog won’t hunt.

  7. 7.

    Mike E

    Walter’s excellent day!

    ETA those are prolly the best pics you’ve taken in a single go…kudos!

  8. 8.

    JanieM

    The Walter and John story keeps making me think of this passage from LOTR:

    Last came Sam leading the pony, which was laden with as much of their baggage as they had the heart to give it; but already it looked less dejected, as if it approved of the change in its fortunes.

  9. 9.

    Manyakitty

    Dang it, there’s something in my eyes! This is such great news, and Walter suits him perfectly.

    All in all, an auspicious beginning for Chez Cole.

  10. 10.

    Bill E Pilgrim

    The Odd Couple indeed. Perfect.

    didn’t get around to getting my tetanus shot when I wanted to, so I had to combine our doctor visits.

    The mixup potential here is too funny. Well I guess we know John won’t get distemper, but I am a little concerned about him getting tetanus…

  11. 11.

    SFAW

    As Skerry said: You’re a good man, John.

    I told you all your (new) bedrooms were going to be taken by your pets – even before you adopted Walter. Make sure you have a comfortable couch.

  14. 14.

    Troublesome Carp fka Geeno

    If you hadn’t already adopted him out, I was going to suggest you just keep him – at his age, he only has a year, maybe two, left. If he couldn’t be with someone quickly – well, I doubt the old boy would be put out if the couch you gave him was in your garage as long as he got to hang with you regularly.

  15. 15.

    CaseyL

    I can’t believe how anxious I’ve been about this pooch. Just on tenterhooks waiting for you to report on his vet visit – SO glad to hear he’s in pretty good shape, all things considered, When you described everyone looking like they were ready to grab a pitchfork and go after The Walking Pustule, I nearly cheered (refrained because I’m at work). Seems like a most excellent vet clinic.

    I think Walter is a wonderful name, and love the story of how he got it.

  16. 16.

    DCrefugee

    Thanks for sharing — and doing — that, Cole. One of the reasons I keep coming back here…

  17. 17.

    Emma

    Good outcome (no, I’m not sniffling, what makes you think I’m sniffling?). Don’t forget to put out the tip jar if you need to. I don’t have much but I can kick in a few bucks.

  20. 20.

    Jay C

    This is such a touching story: I hope (as I’m sure a lot of Juicers also do) that Walter recovers and lives out the rest of his doggy life with love and comfort, as is only right.
    While the vet bill seems reasonable (by NYC standards, anyway) , can we still make some sort of contribution to make sure John doesn’t have to suffer (financially) too badly?
    Or should we just let it go on his Karma account….?

  21. 21.

    Bill E Pilgrim

    Fun fact: The original iteration of Homer Simpson’s voice was basically Castellaneta doing Walter Matthau.

    Also Zoidberg was a mashup of George Jessel and Lou Jacobi, and probably my favorite, Kif came from first doing Jon Lovitz and then mixing that with Truman Capote. “Captain, the crew doesn’t share your fondness for velour…”

  22. 22.

    Desargues

    You and your story made my WEEK! I feel so good about people right now, and I wish I could hug my man Walter. You’re a good man, Mr Cole. Thank you for doing that for the poor fella. I’m sure he’s grateful too.

  23. 23.

    Johannes

    I’m in moderation for providing the clip of Matthau in “Taking of Pelham 1, 2, 3” that exemplifies the name?

    Oh, the humanity…

  24. 24.

    LesGS

    My eyes seem to have sprung a leak…

    You’re a mensch, John. Walter lucked out, big time.

  25. 25.

    Olivia

    I am so glad you got the pertussis with the tetanus shot. I had no idea that the protection wears off. A few years ago several people in my office, including me, got whooping cough. It is the worst illness I have ever had and it took 3 months to feel human again.

  26. 26.

    geg6

    I love you, John Cole. And I adore Walter. Yes, those are tears in my eyes. I’m not ashamed of them.

  27. 27.

    Pogonip

    Walter will be OK! Yay! Thank you, Saints Francis and Cole!

    Minnesota’s a long stressful trip from West-by-God-Virginia. Just keep him and let him live out his remaining time in Chez Cole.

  31. 31.

    hedgehog mobile

    Wonderful news! So happy for Walter. John,you rock. Got dusty in here of a sudden….

  32. 32.

    SiubhanDuinne

    I am in tears of joy and relief! Yay Walter, and yay John, and yay great vet and nurses (and yay John’s mom). Walter’s a good name for him, and you can tell already that he trusts and totally appreciates you. You are such a good man, and Walter is one blessed dog. May he have many years of health and happiness.

  33. 33.

    Sphex

    I’ve been anxiously awaiting an update. Thank you for giving it to us, John. You’re such a good egg, and may Walter’s days get ever better from here…

  34. 34.

    MazeDancer

    Thank you for all the details, John. What a wonderful report. Thank you for giving Walter so much love and such a good day.

    We all stand by for further updates. Think we all feel like this sweet boy is “our” dog. You have done a grand thing, Mr. Cole.

  35. 35.

    WaterGirl

    Walter looks like a happy-go-lucky dog with his tongue hanging out in the back seat. What a sweetheart. Good boy, Walter. Good boy!

  36. 36.

    satby

    Thank you John. Thanks for doing so much for the old boy.

    @Pogonip: it doesn’t need to be if we set up a rescue relay car trip. And some old dogs can live longer than the average 12 years; once Walter is less starved they may reassess his age too. Finally, Walter has been through a lot, a few days of travel to spend the rest of his life as a cherished single dog instead of one of five animals is what this boy deserves after all he’s gone through, if John and debit decide that.

    I have contacts that can help us set up a safe road trip for Walter if and when that’s needed.

  37. 37.

    japa21

    To bring up something that others discussed yesterday. Is there a way we can do something so the full burden of the vet costs don’t rest on your shoulder alone?

  41. 41.

    TheDr

    Phew, I was dreading visiting the site today in case there was bad news. Not that this is anything new to the regulars here, but you are a good man John Cole, one off the best. Walter is very lucky you found him.

  42. 42.

    Mnemosyne

    I had to text G at work and let him know everything is okay. He was very worried.

    (We do not have a dog currently, but he always had dogs as a kid, so we will probably have one at some point.)

  45. 45.

    Kristine

    So much yea!!

    ::imagines angry pet lovers streaming out of the vet’s waiting room brandishing pitchforks and howling like a pack of beagles, and smiles::

  48. 48.

    Quinerly

    All great news! I vote to keep him and let him live out the rest of his life with you and all your other fur babies! You are a good man, John Cole! Walter is some kinda lucky.

  49. 49.

    satby

    And in my experience sometimes the ones who have suffered terribly are the best, most agreeable, grateful dogs ever. Because they lived the alternative. Humans really don’t deserve dogs.

  50. 50.

    The Very Reverend Battleaxe of Knowledge

    I hardly ever comment here any more, but–bless you, Mr. Cole. And Walter, too.

  51. 51.

    Mnemosyne

    Also, I love that first photo because, despite everything else he’s had to deal with, Walter is clearly thinking, “I love car rides. Car rides are the greatest.”

  53. 53.

    max

    @Tripod: Put fumigate the house on the punch list.

    Probably wanna do that first. 10-12 cans of that flea fumigation stuff should kill them all dead. No need for newspaper, since the carpet’s gone. Do need to do it because those little buggers will multiple and be climbing all over you. And traveling with you. Probably build flea catapults and start launching cannibal raids on the neighbors and God knows what else. (Trust me on this one, I have seen it.)

    IMMEDIATELY after that picture, he turned and looked at me and shot me this goofy yet also lugubrious sly look and instantly reminded me of Walter Matthau.

    I was figuring Walter Sobchak but Matthau works for me. Good work guy!

    max
    [‘I have a puppy. Certain dogs of my acquaintance are very uncertain about this dog-shaped rat thing.’]

  54. 54.

    Mj_Oregon

    Ok, so now I’m crying.
    Excellent report and amazing photos! Welcome to BJ, Walter!

  57. 57.

    Roger Moore

    @SFAW:

    I told you all your (new) bedrooms were going to be taken by your pets – even before you adopted Walter.

    I don’t think so. From John’s telling, the animals don’t want their own bedrooms; they want to curl up with their human. It might be a good idea to get a larger bed, though, to make sure there’s space for a human after all the pets get their space.

  60. 60.

    NorthLeft12

    Thanks for making this a very happy story John. Not everyone takes the opportunities that come our way to show that we are good people, but you did here and you deserve all the accolades and good karma that are coming your way.

  61. 61.

    Kristine

    @satby: I thought that, too. Abandoned, starved, yet so happy to be out among people, to ride in a car, and go to the vet’s office of all places. Nope, we don’t deserve dogs.

  66. 66.

    MelissaM

    Gods, this warms a flea-bitten lurker’s heart. Walter had a crap roll of the dice, but came up aces when you found him, Cole! Here’s hoping it’s gravy from here on out for the boy.

  67. 67.

    amygdala

    You da man. Thank you for the day brightener, and for being your kindly curmudgeonly self.

  69. 69.

    Pogonip

    @max: i recommend Ultracide, a spray product; it’s about $30/can by mail order. One treatment cleared up our flea invasion. Unlike the bombs, which have patchy coverage, you can put the spray where you want it. I also rscommend removing any carpet. Fleas love carpet.

  72. 72.

    Lexiltucky

    Thanks for the update, John. Good news like this starts the weekend off right. Walter is one lucky doggie to have been found in time by someone who would be sure to do right by him.

    You’re a good man, Cole.

  74. 74.

    AnotherBruce

    Like many others have said, you’re a good man, John. And also a helluva story teller.

  76. 76.

    the Conster, la Citoyenne

    I just can’t even with all of this. All of the feels. Would love to help pay the bill, or in the alternative, I will make another donation to my local pet rescue and encourage anyone who can to do the same.

  77. 77.

    Ed_finnerty

    I had two Walter’s

    Old part lab rescues

    One made 14 with two years of cancer treatments

    Sophie made ofvery 18

    So I am optimistic for walter

  78. 78.

    Josie

    So good to know that Walter will be okay. Thanks, John, for caring and for telling us the rest of the story.

  80. 80.

    Tripod

    If no heart worm, that’s great. The later stage treatments are long, and rough on the dog. If you don’t have one, get a shedding blade, that hair will blast off post bath. The good behavior is a plus for placement, let us know how it goes with cats, other dogs and toys.

  81. 81.

    pat

    Yay John, Yay Walter and I too seem to have something in my eyes.

    Thanks SO MUCH for the news.

    eta: I LOVE the picture of Walter drooling over the back seat! I think there’s a reason every dog seems to be smiling….

  82. 82.

    Joy

    It must have been karma that you bought that house. Most people would have left him at the shelter or put him down. Walter suits him. He is a handsome old guy. You are a good man with a loving heart.

  84. 84.

    Woodrowfan

    thank God. whew… It’s a good thing my wife doesn’t read blogs or she’d already be there asking to adopt him. (I gave her an update anyway)

  85. 85.

    Pogonip

    @Kristine: Pitchforks? I’d load my shotgun with rock salt if I could target the Walking Pustule. (And it sounds like the WP had better leave Cole’s friendly little town.)

  86. 86.

    Suzanne

    DAWWWWW. I have been busy this week and have missed some parts of this story (obviously you bought a property and found a stray pooch), but seeing a happy ol’ dawg just makes every day better.

  87. 87.

    Rand Careaga

    Hate to pile on, but I add my voice to the throng: you’re a good man, John Cole, and this act alone completely wipes out any negative karma you may have picked up prior to your political road-to-Damascus moment.

  88. 88.

    ThresherK

    @Bill E Pilgrim: I remember hearing Billy West talk about Zoidberg re George Jessel.

    From the same interview, which I can’t remember, Zapp Brannigan is (not surprisingly) a nod to the late, great Phil Hartman (a guy who I still miss) mixed with some radio personalities West knew who were just too in love with the sound of their own voices.

  89. 89.

    Chat Noir

    John, you are a mensch. People like you deserve only the best. Thank you for the update.

  91. 91.

    MazeDancer

    In Minnesota is where Debit lives, and that works out to be the connection – say no one in WV during Walter’s gaining strength bonds and can’t let him go – then Google says WV to Minneapolis is under 14 hours.

    If that’s accurate, for people who have lived out West, that’s nothing. Dogs love cars. If it’s a relay, it’s not even an overnight in a pet-friendly motel on the road.

    But looking at the pictures and reading the story, don’t see how Walter is ever going to be let go by people who come in touch with him while he heals.

  92. 92.

    raven

    @satby: Lil Bit was dumped so we don’t know how old she is. Eight years ago we were at Edisto Island and settling in for the opening ceremony in Bejing. I had been in the ocean and had water in my ears so I had a bottle of ear dry on the kitchen table. Unfortunately it was the same kind of bottle her eye meds were in so I put the ear crap in her eyes by accident! It was just before 5 so I called out vet and he said “you have to get her to an emergency vet”. The closet one was in Mount Pleasant across the bride from Charleston, 60 miles away. We hauled ass there, got her treated and it turned out I did no permanent damage.

  95. 95.

    WaterGirl

    @Roger Moore: After a point, I’m not sure the size of the bed matters. In the morning, you still find yourself wedged into a corner by your beloved pets.

  97. 97.

    rikyrah

    Well, I’m glad you got such a positive report for Walter.

    And, you took care of yourself.

    You’re good people, Cole. :)

  98. 98.

    J.

    You are a hero, John Cole. Walter is a lucky dog (now). Thanks for restoring my faith in humanity… for at least a few minutes. Looking forward to following your and Walter’s continuing adventures.

  100. 100.

    the Conster, la Citoyenne

    @Suzanne:

    The stray was left alone to starve/die in the foreclosed house by its previous owner, and was found by John, who took title to the house, in the nick of time.

  101. 101.

    Mary G

    I get a mental picture of the entire town of Bethany fanning out to look for the asshole that abandoned Walter, then your mom and dad giving him a stern talking-to before you hand him over to the game warden.

    Thanks for all the detail and pictures and the name, which I love, even if debit decides to change it for something else. The happy car face, the lying in the grass at your feet, his patience with the doctor, basking in the nurses’ attention (that photo is indeed awesome), no heartworm, and everything else you gave us has me kvelling and crying and smiling. You are the anti-Donald Trump, John. Thank you so much for being you.

  103. 103.

    Renie

    I normally don’t check the blog at work but I did today a few times to see if there was any update on the dog. Like everyone else so glad to hear everything is looking good for Walter. Sending some $ to help with future expenses. You are a very good and kind person John.

  105. 105.

    Breezeblock

    Fantastic. Thx for the update. Once again, “You’re a good man, Charlie Brown!”

    BTW, if you need $ help, just say the word. I can chip in.

  106. 106.

    Just One More Canuck

    In the picture sitting on the grass, he seems to have a sense that everything is going to be alright

  110. 110.

    JGL

    I’m not crying, YOU’RE crying.

    Congrats on the house; second the flea precautions if there is any fabric/carpet in the house; and so happy for Walter.

  111. 111.

    Starfish

    I told my spouse who does not read this blog about the dog situation, and he said “by the way, that reminds me the roofer is coming Monday” due to historic John Cole related roof incidents.

  112. 112.

    NotMax

    Bound to be getting quizzical or nervous looks for several days from your menagerie because they can smell Walter on you.

    As he’s older, thinking more Brennan than Matthau.

    Forget who it was who best described Walter Matthau: He has a face like an old shoe.

  113. 113.

    the Conster, la Citoyenne

    That picture of him at the vet – his eyes are just registering the glimmer of hope for a life. At least that’s what I see through the mist covering my eyes.

  114. 114.

    Mnemosyne

    @Just One More Canuck:

    One of our now-late cars used to get recurrent ear infections and while she never really liked going to the vet, she seemed to remember that she felt better after going there, so she would get in the carrier pretty willingly when her ear was bothering her.

    I’m guessing that Walter in that photo is like, Whew, the new hooman finally brought me to the place with the hoomans that will make me feel better. I can relax now.

  115. 115.

    debit

    Fuck yeah!! I just got back from walking Ellie and this was the first thing I saw. I think Walter will be a fine match for Ellie. Email on its way. Oh god, I’m so happy.

  117. 117.

    stinger

    Thanks for the update and the pictures. The name Walter has many happy associations for me–and this is yet another!

  118. 118.

    NotMax

    Also occurred to me you may want to consider bug bombing the new house to deal with flea (and who knows what else) infestation.

  120. 120.

    Reformed Panty Sniffer

    John:

    Total mensch move. Thanks for taking good care of old man Walter. May he have the best rest of life possible. That vet bill would have been double (at least) up here in NJ.

  121. 121.

    Pogonip

    Cole! Wait! Stop! Unless you wish to explain to all and sundry that your dog does not have embarrassing gas problems, don’t call him Walter. There’s a popular series of picture books about Walter the Farting Dog.

    On the other hand , if he DOES turn out to have embarrassing gas problems, you’ve found the perfect name.

  122. 122.

    The Sheriff's A Ni-

    Aw, the poor old man. Who’d abandon such a sweetheart? At least he’s in good hands now, he’ll have a happy life ahead of him!

  123. 123.

    skyweaver

    Way to go, John! And welcome back, Walter. If commentator Debit falls through for some reason (I’m behind on threads and all I’ve read is this post), we are more than happy to take him. We live in the DC area, so short drive, and have a very sweet lab/Golden mix named Athena, who is also older and quite gentle. Sounds like things are in motion for Debit, though, so cheers to both of you.

  125. 125.

    WaterGirl

    @Pogonip: I think that perhaps you have mis-read your audience. I am guessing that would make Cole think that Walter is an even better name than he thought!

    I’m sure Cole will speak up if he disagrees.

  127. 127.

    WaterGirl

    @skyweaver: Walter is blessed to suddenly have so many people who care about him and would take him in. Found Dogs are indeed forever grateful.

  128. 128.

    steve herl

    What I find so appealing about big and old dogs like Walter is their acceptance of discomfort in exchange for human interaction. “You want to stick needles and poke things in me..no problem. Give me a pat or scratch on the head and talk nice to me and you can do this all day” FTW. Good Boy Walter Good Boy.

  130. 130.

    Drunkenhausfrau

    This post is why I have been coming here daily since, what? 2003? When Cole was still a raving R? But a good man with a great cat… Then came the dogs and the mishaps…

  131. 131.

    debit

    @WaterGirl: She’s such a sweet girl. I’d gone to the Humane Society looking for a jogging buddy. Had my eye on a younger shepard mix but we didn’t click. I was about to leave, but then decided to stroll over to the last kennel and there she was; curled up in the corner, an elderly dog and obviously terrified. I called the assistant and said, “That dog. I’m taking her home.” I can’t bear the thought of older pets sitting in cages, wondering why they’re there and why their family hasn’t come for them. While in the pound she caught kennel cough,which turned into pneumonia and we nearly lost her, but she’s completely recovered now.

    Anyway, I knew the second I saw Walter that I wanted to give him as much love and happiness as I can for the rest of his life.

  132. 132.

    RandomMonster

    You’re a credit to your species, John Cole. And Walter to his. Bless you both…

  136. 136.

    Coin operated

    Cole or Debit,
    De-lurking to say if you need any transport funds…let me know. More than happy to help out.

    P.S….Cole has the email address…best way to contact me.

  138. 138.

    Mary G

    @debit: You are a mensch, too. Ellie looks like a perfect match! Here’s to happy times for Walter, Ellie, and you. I hope you will send us after pictures when he gets to a normal weight.

  139. 139.

    skyweaver

    Oh and now that I’m reading this thread I’m seeing people offer to send money, so I’m doing it too. You’re good people, John. Please more updates when you can, he looks like such a good boy.

  141. 141.

    different-church-lady

    @Skerry:

    You are a good man, John Cole

    I think it should be automatic that this be the second comment on every thread.

  144. 144.

    Ultraviolet Thunder

    Delurking to say bravo John, and welcome Walter!
    I have been obsessing in my head about this unfortunate creature since I saw the first picture.
    He got lucky. He got John, and he’ll get a loving home.

  145. 145.

    Feebog

    Good job John. You just received all the points you will ever need to open the pearly gates.

  146. 146.

    debit

    Thanks everyone for the offers to donate and transport. I can meet someone in Wisconsin, Illinois or Iowa if need be. This blog, man. I love you guys.

  149. 149.

    dexwood

    Coming in very late, John and others, but Walter needed no explanation. The name fits.

  151. 151.

    J R in WV

    John,

    Thanks so much for the complete report, glad you took care of your tetanus shot, I got one back in the spring just in case. Glad there was no heartworm, that’s really hard on a dog, even if they do really well in treatment. Our older rescue, Happy, is a golden lab mix rescued off a chain at 3 am by a client of our vet who couldn’t stand to know there was a dog being tormented.

    Happy spent 9 months at the vets in heartworm treatment. We’ve had her about 10 years now, and she’s a regular farm dog. Knows how to hit the handle of the storm door to exit when necessary in her mind. Needs help to get back in. We’ve been seeing the same vet clinic for ummm 35 years, and they know we live in a good place for dogs who need and deserve a place to run.

    Walter sounds like he knows he’s landed in the heart of goodness and luck. Rescue critters can be so grateful. Best wishes to you and your new old house.

  152. 152.

    Aurona

    My 10 year old Lab, Gracie, looks just like Walter: The same “sugar on the face” on the chin and around the eyes and what wonderful souls these senior Labs are; gentle, kind and loving. Like Lily only bigger! Thank you John! This is heartwarming news to begin the weekend. I hope his new forever home is the final stop for many years to come. *wipes tears*

  153. 153.

    jenn

    I am so glad to hear that Walter’s going to be okay, and thanks to John and debit for making sure he has a happy life. And my local SPCA is getting a donation in Walter’s honor.

    /Off to hug a couple of dogs

  155. 155.

    SgrAstar

    @Pogonip: @Pogonip: @Pogonip: @Pogonip: @Pogonip: Yes, pogonip! Walter should join the dog farm. You already love him, Cole…admit it! He’ll be an incredible, stabilizing influence on Rosie, Thurston, and Lily. Of course Steve will rule, graciously, over all.

  160. 160.

    Techocrat

    Awww crap,i read this while in line for suicide squad. Made me a little weepy.

    I know people are like “Man, it got bad reviews, but this guy is crying BEFORE he sees it”

    ETA: You really stepped up John. Much good karma for you.

  161. 161.

    beth

    Guess we know who’s going to grace the cover of this year’s balloon juice pet calendar. I was waiting all day to hear the outcome and so glad I can finally uncross my fingers.

    I’m in northern Indiana (actually a Chicagoan who made a terrible, terrible mistake). If there’s a relay, I’m happy to take a leg from Indiana to Illinois.

  162. 162.

    The Pale Scot

    The pic of Walter at the vet is beautiful, you should sell portraits sized pics of it

  163. 163.

    Miss Bianca

    @Techocrat: LOL! (you’ll have to give us a report on “Suicide Squad”, btw. Even tho’ I’m barely aware of what it’s all about).

  164. 164.

    Lorinda Pike

    Another here who reads every day, but generally lurks.

    John, I have thought about you and that sweet doggie all day long.

    If I were not married (and likely old enough to be your mother) I would marry you immediately, and we would rescue dogs and cats forever and ever.

    (And congrats on your two years. I know from eleven years experience it only gets better. One day at a time – and there will be wonderful days!)

  165. 165.

    WaterGirl

    @debit: She looks like a total sweetheart, though perhaps not a jogging buddy! :-)

    It’s so great that you are taking Walter. So many good people here at BJ.

  166. 166.

    LookingForACanadian

    John is a pet/animal superhero. I’m nowhere near creative enough to come up with a name/costume but I’m sure someone here is.

  168. 168.

    Sasha

    I have to put this out there: chewable Rimadyl kills dogs. I know it is convenient but they will eat the entire bottle if they can. We get rimadyl for our basset, Kirby. One time they gave us the chewables by mistake and I decided to keep them. My smaller dog got to them, through our carelessness. He’s fine but it cost us a ton of money and was a scary time. I like American cheese, it works every time.

  170. 170.

    Kyle

    You don’t know me and can’t really care about my opinion, but you are a lovely person, Mr. Cole. If only the world were full of folks like you.

  171. 171.

    debit

    @Mary G: I’m pretty sure the iphone was invented for pet pics. I whip my out at the least prompting to share, so yes, assume plenty of pics.

  172. 172.

    Aleta

    Celebrating for Walter tonight!

    Hey girl, you know what you’ve been missing?
    Me, me, yeah
    Hey girl, whoever you’ve been kissing
    It ain’t me, me
    I got that love medicinal
    I’ll make you feel invincible
    I’m more than recreational
    I’m what you need
    I’ll be your smooth ride, that late night, your Walter White high
    Get you falling in love at the end of the night
    That good ish, that long trip, that sugar on your lips
    That favorite habit, gotta have it, you can’t quit
    I got your fix
    m.youtube.com/watch?v=YrxMDxr7I_cl

  173. 173.

    BethanyAnne

    Debit, that reminds me of adopting my 2 cats. I went to the shelter because I saw a brother and sister on Petfinder, and I wanted 2. When I got there, they said that they had been at the shelter 16 months. No one wanted cats that weren’t kittens, and Louie is solid black, so that was a dealbreaker for some folk, too.

    I was all – “Well, I’ll just be taking them home then, thankyouverymuch.” And they are so wonderful! Just great beasts.

  174. 174.

    bluefish

    Hurrah! Such a treat to read all this tonight. Walter is a great name. Matthau was brilliant and quite the ladies’ man. Married to the real, original Holly Golightly for decades.

    This adventure of yours has made me so very very happy. The kind of story one never forgets and your relaying of the info has been a) super informative and b) terrific to read. It’s wild that you buy a house and, bingo, are cast in the role of super hero. Many blessings on you. Walter has already hit the ultimate lotto.

    The doggie sounds like he enjoyed all the human touch and talk and the outpouring of love and attention. Plus a couple of cool car rides! And a good, clean, safe place to sleep. Woof! And Moon River.

  175. 175.

    slag

    This is the second time I like a pet name you’ve chosen. When I first saw the dog, I thought “Winston”. But Walter works! Well done all around, and congratulations on the great news!

  176. 176.

    ms_canadada

    @LookingForACanadian:
    (I’m a Canadian)
    John Cole, you are one compassionate young man. Please let us help you with Walter’s rehabilitation. (My Portuguese Water Grand-dog is named Walter, although I call him ‘Wally-Wally-Billy-Bang’ after the great free jazz violinist)
    We have Walter’s back (and yours)!

  177. 177.

    Aleta

    My dog (9 1/2 now, rescued 2 years ago) had problems with digestion that I thought were either normal or sensitive to foods (gas, sloppy poop. Put him on a dog food that has probiotics. And limited ingredients and now he’s tolerant of almost everything. Probiotics seemed to do the trick.

    This summer finally broke down and bought him a good dog bed, $120 or so. He liked it for a couple of weeks but now he’s insisted on going back to my 25$ Futon. His is in better shape by far. Go figure. Great great dog. Everything good they say about older dogs is true for him. Makes my day every day.

  178. 178.

    seaboogie

    @Aleta: Your futon is probably (to your dog) similar to a well-gnawed and slick with spittle tennis ball – that’s when it’s good and seasoned and has all the good (you) smells.

  179. 179.

    Dee Loralei

    @debit: that is a great story! I want you guys to get Walter. I live in Memphis and am willing to drive 500miles to get him to you.

  181. 181.

    satby

    @beth: Beth, I made the same mistake but in SW MI ?
    Now about to move to South Bend, mostly because I can’t afford to move back to Chicago.

    We have most of a relay run in place already, it sounds like. I really would advocate for John to have him go to debit or another home, just because dogs who have been starved like that can become very aggressive about their food, and John’s animals are all significantly smaller. The late lamented Biggie had been treated that way, and though he was the sweetest dog on earth to humans, he was less predictable to other dogs when food came out. It may never be a problem with Walter, but it’s something that needs to be considered.

  182. 182.

    c u n d gulag

    John,
    Because my Mom is almost 85, and allergic, we currently have no pet.
    But, allergic or not, when we were kids, we had a great dog, several cats, a parakeet, etc..

    She tolerated these pets, and still sang solo in Carnegie Hall – TWICE!!!

    Man,
    I don’t have any pets right now because I’m living with my Mom – and I’m not gay- but, I love ya, brother!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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