Big Paws Only Dog Forums

The St Bernard Rescue co-ordianator for PA. reports that the Pyr is being pulled by a rescue group and that the two Saints have a couple of local rescue groups looking into their situation. I believe they want to temperment test them for adoption potential. That was the info she was given by the Pikesville shelter. Crossing fingers!!

Ahhhh the teen years! All that youthful energy has to have an outlet. Have you tried increasing the exercise time before bed? I used to go for long, rambling walks late at night with my last boy. Always felt safe, who's going to hassle you with a 'big dog' at the end of the leash?? Anyway, by the end of the walk we were both ready to sleep completely through the night. Really helped strengthen the bond between us and was great for practicing our obedience lessons without distraction. Remember, "A tired puppy is a good puppy"!!

What about OSU's vet school? A teaching college should have highly competent surgeons available, plus plenty of eager students for after care. Cost is generally more affordable too??!! Barring that if you want to travel to Pittsburgh, PA, I can recommend Pgh Veterinary Specialists and Dr Anthony Pardo in particular. He performed double TPLO's on my Raemi and he and his staff were wonderful! Open 24/7 too, as it also is an emergency clinic. Will send you contact info if you are interested. Referral from your vet is necessary.

As a former lurker and brand new poster could I jump in here with some advice? Please go to this site http://www.saintbernardclub.org/ and read EVERYTHING. As a looong time owner of Saints (early '70's)I can tell you they can be heartbreakers. Giant breeds have shorter lifespans, fact, but those lives can be even shorter due to genetic factors. Hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, osteosarcoma, these are some of those life shorteners that can be gene related. No matter how adorable that litter of puppies is, make sure that the breeder behind it did their homework. Did they have the parents OFA'd? Do they know what health issues are in their lines for the last 3 or more generations? If not, wait. The right puppy is out there for you. All puppies are a "crap shoot" but do try hard to load the dice in your favor It hurts so very much to lose one at only 5 years old or younger because someone didn't care enough to breed with integrity. And finally temperment, temperment, temperment. Accept no excuses on why you can't meet the parents or talk to the owners of other puppies they have produced. Do it right and you will never regret being owned by a Saint. They make our lives complete. I'll get off my soapbox now, go find that perfect friend.
Dana
w/Raemi & Breccan
Oh, and obedience training starting before they outweigh you is a must!