HEROISM  |
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Two of our shelter dogs have been unsung heros who helped save other dogs; lives. "Had they not been there. The other dogs may not have made it," Tina Gauthier, a Shelter volunteer, said. "Colorado and Smartee are a example of "No greater love..." Today (June 2004 and May 2005) Colorado and Smartee donated blood to save other dogs that was in need of a transfusion to save their lives. Those who don't know may not realize how risky this procedure can be. Due to their acts of heroism, another animals were saved, and Colorado and Smartee were adopted. Colorado's and Smartee's new owners have a great deal to be proud of when they introduce them to their friends. Of course, we always knew that Colorado and Smartee were destined for greatness," Gauthier shared.
Published Tuesday, June 29, 2004
"He was about ready to be put down," Animal Control Officer Joe Gauthier said.
An adoptive family expressed interest in the nick of time. But before he left the shelter, Colorado paid his dues.
On June 2, the floppy eared lab donated blood -- a risky procedure for canines -- saving the life of another sick dog.
The heroic hound is this month's featured pet on the animal shelter's Web site at www.petfinder.org/shelters/MT38.html.
Colorado isn't the shelter's first dog to give blood.
In November, a shelter collie named Lady gave a life-saving blood donation to "Hogarth," a miniature schnauzer who suffered internal injuries after he was struck by a pickup.
Lady was later adopted by Landis Meeks, who coordinates Red Cross blood drawings in the Cut Bank area.
Hogarth is fully recovered and busy playing with his 6-year-old owner Brandon Ostby.
Brandon's parents, Jeannie and Grant Ostby, are so grateful that they both donated blood.
"I don't know how I would have told Brandon that his dog wasn't coming home," Ostby said. "They are two peas in a pod." -- K.O.
