In August, handsome standard schnauzer Duke arrived at K9 Crusaders in Cornwall when his owner’s health deteriorated. Duke is around 5 years old, was overweight and suffered multiple infected skin lesions. It’s thought the lesions first appeared as a result of inappropriate diet, stress and neglect.
Since being with his rescue, Duke has been on a grain free diet and exercise programme, received veterinary treatment for the skin lesions and infections, and he has now been given the all clear by his vet team.
A Schnauzerfest Grant has supported K9 Crusaders with the costs of Duke’s care and treatment.
During the past few months, the team at K9 Crusaders have put in a good deal of time to help Duke overcome many issues: when he first arrived he disliked strangers, feared men in particular, was headshy. He’s not tolerant of other dogs, has food guarding issues and had little idea of what toys are for, and no concept of play.
However, with the time, patience and care he’s received, this gorgeous dog has come out of himself and been busy learning how to be a dog.
With dedicated help from his rescuers and veterinary treatment over several weeks, Duke is soon to head off to his new home, a far healthier and happier boy.
“K9 Crusaders would like to say a huge thank you to Schnauzerfest for your help with his vet fees and grain-free food and treats especially during these turbulent times in which we have lost virtually all our fundraisers.”
DECEMBER 2020
Duke is doing great! Or, as we should rightly call him, Dukey Wookey which is his preffered name these days! Janet his adopter tells us that he’s ‘just fabulous’ and has settled into home life very well, with a choice of Dukey beds as well as human ones at bedtime. This is such good news for a boy who when he arrived into rescue had many troubles and worries.
Whilst he is still a bit scared of the big wide world, Janet says he is such a sweet natured, loving and gentle soul who is now finding his feet, looking so pleased with himself when running around, learning as he goes, being liberally rewarded for his hard work every pawstep of the way.
He travels well in the car and loves the beach - living in Cornwall he is spoilt for choice - although apparently he’s unsure about the wet stuff that seems to chase him!
“Duke is just fabulous. K9 Crusaders supported his rehabilitation and he has no problem putting on his harness. He’s getting better when family visit and has even let my brother stroke him.
He is starting to ‘walk-on’ past other dogs and has shown some tendencies for play. I am unconditionally, totally in love.”
Meeting the locals