A Warren dog is back home again after being lost for 10 days.
Nancy Gabel of Plymouth Rock Road said her 12-year-old Boxer named Tasha suffered from a number of ailments before wandering off. The dog is blind from glaucoma and also nearly deaf with two lame back legs.
After her father suffered a heart attack, Gabel said she went to visit him. Upon returning, she was on the phone with her sister when Tasha escaped out the door and into the nearby woods.
Article Photos
Times Observer photo by Colin Kyler
Survivor
Nancy Gabel holds her dog Tasha.
A number of searches followed, Gabel said, but Tasha may not have heard the people calling her name. Neighbors, Boy Scouts, search and rescue dogs and firefighters were all enlisted to help.
To further spread the word, Gabel put up flyers, posted on Facebook and advertised in the Times Observer. One person called her and reported seeing an older Boxer on the west side of town.
After going there to investigate, Gabel said it wasn't Tasha. However, she said, that dog's owner had seen the advertisement and felt bad for her.
Finally, Gabel said a neighbor heard a faint bark while walking a trail on Wednesday, May 30. They managed to locate Tasha and take her to the veterinarian.
Tasha suffered from severe dehydration, Gabel said, and was shocked, limp and lethargic. Her bad legs got worse and maggots infested her skin.
For two days, Gabel said Tasha recovered in the veterinarian's office and received intravenous therapy. The veterinarian noted recent rain likely provided the water the dog needed as they can survive without food.
Given Tasha's condition, Gabel said it was amazing another animal didn't attack her. Coyotes can be heard in the area every night, she said, and after her neighbor returned home from helping save the dog a bear crossed her path.
"Some said maybe Tasha went off to die, being older," Gabel said. "If that were the case, she would have given up."
Whatever the reason, Gabel said she's glad to have her dog home. Her other dog was also excited, she said, and gave her kisses when she got back.
Right now, Gabel said Tasha needs a harness with wheels to get around. Anyone who can help should contact her at 563-3448.