‘Yogo’

Died 23/6/10 aged 16 years

Yogo’ was one of a kind. A soulmate, energetic companion, gourmet, Vizsla calendar pin-up boy and, even a therapy dog.

In 2003, ‘Yogo’ was found wandering the streets by the ranger and taken to the local dog refuge. Unclaimed, he spent a month there until a friend alerted us to his plight and, with the generous help of the Hungarian Vizsla Club of New South Wales, was released to our care. The plan was to find this skinny 10 year old a suitable foster home in which he could live out the rest of his life. For a number of reasons this never happened. So, although we already had three dogs, we felt that we could offer Yogo a ‘forever home’ to enable this old boy to see out his remaining time in comfort. Little did we know that we would enjoy his company for seven wonderful years.

Yogo wasted no time in establishing just who was in charge at our place. He demanded his meals and twice-daily walks on time and, he insisted that Zoe stop whatever she was doing to have an afternoon nap with him, as sleeping alone was unthinkable.

He was an enthusiastic barker who delighted in ‘helping’ with gardening chores and, he had first option over the other dogs when it came to prime position on the sofa or bed. He adored Zoe and rarely left her side. In Zoe’s former work as a therapist, Yogo would often be invited to ‘sit-in’ by clients who enjoyed his company. He had an incredible way of knowing how to respond to people. Yogo combined the wisdom of age with the enthusiasm of a puppy.

When we first got him, it turned out that Yogo had major eye problems and a serious heart condition. Thanks to the generosity and skill of Dr. Paul Gendle of Halls Head Small Animal Clinic in Mandurah, Yogo underwent three operations to correct his eye ulcers. He then remained well and free from pain until his passing.

At home Yogo was wrapped in so much love and warmth with many doggie companions for company. He had the best food which is now refered to as a ‘Yogo’ diet but would have loved to have dined on junk food if we had let him. . He picked the best retirement village he could have had.

In the end though Yogo’s heart failed him and wrapped in my arms and surrounded by his ‘family’ he went off peacefully to join his mate Diesel CD at the Rainbow Bridge. We especially thank the Mira Mar Veterinary team in Albany for their care of Yogo in his old age.

We think that Yogo’s greatest legacy is to serve as an inspiration to anyone considering the adoption of an older rescue Dog. This little man of ours was special and, if time and circumstances are right, we hope to take on another old dog in need of another chance in life.

Thank you Yogo. It was a great honour to have shared your life. ‘Till we meet again old friend.”

Zoe and John Butler, Ariel and Baneka of Albany Western Australia