Mr. Spock… Fascinating – RIP

Gregg contacted me yesterday, and gave me the news, Bailey passed away suddenly. He apparently ripped his spleen, but the complications were originally due to cancer on his pancreas. This is a real blow to the Carlson family, they recently lost their other TDL dog, Iris. Our prayers are with them, and Bailey will always be remembered.

History:  Spock was transported to us by Michael McGrath, a Pilots N Paws pilot, who after weather would not allow him to fly Spock, he literally fostered Spock over night at his home, and drove him for us! Serena had the privilege of meeting Mike after several hours of being on the road!

We want to thank Mr. McGrath for his dedication and efforts to help this young boy, known as Bailey, and now renamed Spock.
Spock is approximately 2 years old. He is fully vetted and neutered. I’m waiting to receive details regarding his history, which is still a mystery. Regardless, today is a new day, and today he starts his new life here with us, and has nothing but hopeful and positive days ahead of him to look forward to.

I did not name him Spock because he has large pointed ears, I named him Spock because even though he does not show emotion, it’s obvious that he processes every sight and sound around him. Nothing escapes Spock. Right now he is spending every second absorbing his surroundings and determining if we are “good people”.

I can’t help but be reminded of our Flash Gordon every time I look at Spock.

Because Spock is not an excited playful dog (instead he is cautious and reserved) I will give him plenty of time before I introduce him to the pack.

Spock will find his grove in due time, and he will show me what brings him joy. Until then, we’re going to give him his space, and allow him to relax and put behind him the trauma of being at the pound, and allow him the time that he needs to forget his past, and move on.

Update: Mr. Spock is adjusting quickly and showing a lot of affection. I do not believe he was ever abused in anyway, I believe he was unsure of all of the changes that were taking place, and needed time to feel safe in his new surroundings. He is very cautious but wants to please and be loved.

Update 12/3/09: Mr. Spock was surrendered by his owner, after his owner became very ill and hospitalized. He came to us at the request of his rescuers. His moments spent at the pound, surely affected him, however, we believe that Spock has never experienced a well-balanced life, in short, never experienced other dogs, and travel in general.

Mr. Spock spent his first few days at The Dog Liberator’s Border Collie Boot Camp just getting used to his surroundings and the founder of the rescue, but now it’s time for him to be properly socialized.

Paul Pipitone helps The Dog Liberator by introducing Spock to different experiences. Much to their surprise, Spock responds well, as he learns to play and trust unknown humans.

Spock is very intelligent, fully vetted, and neutered. He is housebroken, very calm, quiet, and would make a great companion to anyone who is looking for a trained Border Collie.

Update 12/10/09: Spock (Bailey) was adopted today by the Carlson family who drove from Cape Coral to meet their forever dog! Looking forward to receiving updates and photos!

Update 12/20/09: Spock, whose real name is Bailey, is enjoying being the puppy he never was. We do believe he experienced some sort of abuse, through simple training errors that left him afraid and confused. Now, he is learning to play with balls, frisbees, brooms, plastic bags, and stuffed animals – which is exactly what he needs.