Health Stats: OFA Good, OFA Elbows Normal, Cardiac Clear, CERF
Deuce picked up the first points to his Championship in late February of this year and needed only a 3 point major to finish his Championship by August. His points included wins under Breeder judges AND a 5 point major. He has 14 points and will never pick up another.
Deuce died on October 3rd 2002. His loss was absolutely devastating to myself and to his owner Charyn Huestis.
Deuce was a dog that could have done it.
He went to stay with his sire's owners/breeders while looking for a new home. His new home ended up being right next door with Charyn.
Not to bad for a first timer!
His first points were picked up in this manner.
I am not writing this to complain about the money I spent, but more as a testament to what a responsible breeder is. I did NOT ask for money for Deuce. I asked for a good home. If that good home would have been a pet home, then that's what it would be.
I paid to have him OFA'd before he left here as well. People who like to think that there is all this money to be had in breeding dogs don't ever see THIS side of it. Deuce cost me upon return in vet fee's, show entries etc.. 3 times his original purchase price and he wasn't even being sold!
Deuce went to live with Charyn. I am eternally grateful that my boy had a home and someone who loved him dearly when he got sick. But I also feel terrible that Charyn, who had already been through so much, was faced with going through more with Deuce.
I wish like hell that I could take it back. I wish I would have sent one of the other two young males I had back in order to keep him. It wouldn't have saved Deuce, but it would have saved Charyn from the heartache and pain :-(
I am sorry Deuce. You should have never left my house. And I am sorry Charyn. You should never have had to endure this.
The study and information gathering on what Deuce died of is ongoing. As I learn more about it I will make every attempt to share it publically so others are not completely surprised if they ever hear of this. I found few people who even knew what this was.
Thank you Dr. Jean Dodds for taking the time to speak with me regarding this. My research continues......
I thank God that he was not alone. He left this world with many of those he loved around him. All dogs should be so lucky.....
