The breeder was very sympathetic but said she could not re-issue papers. I would have to work that out with Mary. Since he didn’t seem to be either show or breeding quality I would probably have him neutered anyway. The papers weren’t that important. She did send me some pictures of his family.
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It was time to visit the vet for a physical before deciding and setting up neutering. The vet tried to open his mouth to examine his teeth. Farfel sat on the table clamping his jaws firmly like a spoiled child in the dentist chair. The rest of the physical did not go better. Farfel had entropion (eyelashes turned inside) in both eyes. Easy, but expensive!
He also had a heart murmur rated between 2-3. I was told it may repair itself as he aged, maybe not. Throughout his life I had him tested frequently, it got better but never entirely. He had no real problems until his last year when it worsened enough to begin congestive heart failure.
I contacted the breeder. I thought she might give me more information or at least appreciate knowing of problems that might appear in future breedings. I was wrong. She hung up on me and we never spoke again.
Time went on. In spite of all the work I did stripping Farfel’s coat he lost his black beard. His adult coat was soft and blonde. I kept him in a pet clip, brushed and scissored, so he was happy.
I had a very successful website for my grooming shop. All my pets, including Farfel had a page. One day I got an email and pictures from the person who had adopted Zoe & Zyggi (Farfel’s sister and brother). They lived in Florida. We corresponded a few times, then lost contact.
I heard from Mary one more time. Farfel was 2 or 3. She called, very indignant, asking why I had not contacted her to give her the puppy I had promised. ??? I set her straight under no uncertain terms. I said from the beginning he was not breeding material, I didn’t breed and he had been neutered years ago!
I never heard from her again. Farfel lived a happy life until his heart condition made things too difficult.
Farfel’s Story | Page 2 | Page 3