Fred Davis

This is the story of my new friend Fred, who has had a rocky road to say the least. I first heard about "Henry" from a friend's mother about 10 months ago. At the time, which was on a Wednesday mind you, I had planned to travel to my best friend's house in Sacramento, California. I met up with his brother at his parents-in-law's house to hitch a ride. I do not know how the conversation started, but his mother in law and I started talking about my roomate's basset hound, Toby. She quickly grew excited and asked if we were looking for another basset. It so happens she knew of one in dire need to be rescued. I called my roomate, not knowing of the severity of the situation, however he said he has his hands full (as all basset hound owners know). When I declined, she revealed a tad bit more information. Apparrantly, a two year old, red basset hound by the name of "Henry" was scheduled to be euthanized that Saturday! Being the animal lover, especially dogs, could not fathom the killing of a 2 year old. Especially a basset hound!? Asking for the number of the rescuer, I tried, with all the resources I could muster to find "Henry" a suitable home. No success. Then the news of a lifetime! My roomate, being a basset owner for 9 years, told me it was time for me to get my first dog, and he would assist me with his experience to at least foster this dog. So, I called up the rescuer and relayed what my roomate discussed and set up a time to pick up "Henry". Then, the atomic bomb. The reasons for euthenasia. She said she hasn't really met the dog, but he was surrendered because he was food aggressive, child aggressive, showed aggression toward other animals, and had severe jealousy issues. That information would have changed everything in the beginning. This was to be my first dog!? A hell hound!? I was even told a professional spent 7 days with him and deemed him "untrainable". I went anyway. We met the rescuer at her house. When she pulled up I was so nervous I was sure this dog was going to sense it and we would have a problem. She opened the side door of her van, and out lumbers a sea lion with ears! He was huge!!!! We locked eyes, his ears went forward, and he waddled over, sat on my feet and it was over from there. I fell in love! Now its ten months later, and Fred is fine. A few issues the first month, but all in all a great loveable hound who loves to lounge, cuddle, and play with his bone! I couldn't have asked for a better friend and soon we will travel home to Florida and live our lives to the fullest.