We have some fantastic news: the adorable, pint-sized Duke Ellington has been adopted! His new mom, dad, sister and brother are so excited to smother him with kisses, and care for all his needs. Happy tails, Duke!
My life has been pretty rough… up until recently. I’m a cute little fella, and I’m pretty sure I wasn’t supposed to end up looking like this.
In the house I called my home, a fat dog jumped on me and about ate me alive. I still may lose an eye. But I survived the attack and lived to tell about it.
For the last couple months, I’ve been recovering from the attack and working on my skin and all the bite marks. I weighed myself today and I am glad to report I have gained some weight. I was skin and bones before.
I’ve been just hanging out with a friend until I felt better. My friend was super nice to me, and she let me eat all I wanted. She also gave me medicated baths and taught me to walk on a leash.
I was going to join rescue when the ice storm came, but the roads were bad and I just stayed in the bed.
Because I was neglected for a really long time, I need to eat and have my water in a separate area because if I see food, I want to eat it all. I will eat until I make myself sick.
I have been staying with a small dog and we were best friends. I loved having the company of another dog.
I smell really bad. Even after my bath, I have a strange odor. I smell like I sat in my own feces for a really long time. Maybe all my life.
But tomorrow, I am going to sit in Dr. Larsen’s lap. She may not be ready for all this Duke Ellington, but she is sure going to get it!
I am thankful for my friend who rescued me a while back and for everything she did for me. I think I’m about 2 years old. I may be a little younger, but Dr. Larsen will have a better idea.
We have found out that Duke has a grade 5 or 6 heart murmur and will be referred to a cardiologist for further evaluation.
3/10/23 Update: Duke did great at his cardiology appointment yesterday. Of course, everyone loved him and snuck snuggles and kisses whenever they could.
He has a grade 4 of 6 murmur on both sides of his heart, but it is in regular rhythm. We need to keep an eye on his respiration rate, as a change could indicate a worsening condition. He can walk and play if he wants, but cannot get too crazy.
He is now on 25 mg of atenolol. They will check him again in two weeks to see how he is doing on the medication and again in 4-6 months. It is recommended that he not have any surgery or IVs until at least the 4-6 month visit.
From the temporary foster momma: Duke is a tiny thing and full of puppy energy. He likes to jump up and be mouthy, but it doesn’t take long for him to calm down to normal mode. He was great with our pack. He showed no interest in the cat, yet still needs some manners and potty training. He’s real close though! He did great being my office helper.
4/11/23 Update: You might remember me. I’m cute as can be and pretty unforgettable.
Here are some things to know about me:
*I’m about the happiest dog you’ll ever meet.
*I require some medicated baths and medication, but I’m easy to work with.
*I’m almost fully potty trained.
*Other dogs are my friends.
*I’ve played with a couple of kids shortly, and I think I like them too.
*I have a heart murmur, so shorter walks are appreciated, but make no mistake… I love to get out and go.
*I’m a really good boy. My temporary foster mom and dad cannot get over how wonderful I am.
If you could make some space for me, I require very little, as I am a tiny fella!
4/21/23 Update: Duke Ellington joined our home about a week ago. He has the cutest, sweetest personality! Sometimes he is shy and timid, but for the most part, he is easy going and happy. Duke always wants to be around people and will cry if someone leaves the room (even if there are still people with him).
Duke does well on a leash, but zigzags all over the place so you have to use caution on a walk. He loves chew toys, but sometimes needs help finding them.
Duke is protective over his food. But thankfully, there’s an easy fix—he eats in a separate area. He shares the water bowl without issue.
Duke is on medication for his eyes, skin and heart. He is a champ when it’s time for eye drops or medicated baths. He likes to take his medicine in a pill pocket or small piece of cheese.
Duke is almost fully potty trained and listens well. He wants to help with chores and will follow you around, but mostly he watches while you work. He’s great at sunbathing and napping!
5/2/23 Update: In my last update, I told y’all Duke Ellington was starting to take over our “blanket bucket.” Well, we may as well refer to it as the “Bulldog bucket” or the “Duke bucket” because I don’t think I’m getting it back. It’s a good thing he’s cute.
Duke is still accident-free. He’s great with kids and our dog. Duke also likes to pretend to help with household chores, but in reality, he just finds a comfortable napping spot while you work.
5/12/23 Update: Duke is amazing. He enjoys napping and following his foster mom around the house. Duke is usually calm, relaxed and so sweet.
Recently, he’s shown his excitement toward us with little nibbles, but we are working on his manners. Redirecting his behavior is easy.
He loves belly rubs and Nylabones. Duke thinks anytime we sit at the table it’s time for him to eat too, even when it’s not.
He doesn’t need to be crated to eat anymore because he realizes no one is trying to steal his food. He will go into the crate to alert us that it’s time for his dinner.
5/18/23 Update: uke Ellington continues to do well in his foster home. Zero accidents in the house, loves his dog bed, and is becoming more gentle when taking treats from our hands.
He had an appointment with the ophthalmologist on Friday and they confirmed there is very minimal eyesight in Duke’s left eye. They also decided to adjust his medication, which Duke continues to take without issue (two eye drops and gel – now three times per day).
Duke loves kids and other dogs. He has even been spotted cuddling with the resident Bulldog. I think she might even be fond of him, too.
5/30/23 Update: I did something drastic this week… I took down the dog crate. It wasn’t being used, except for mealtime and it was simply in the way.
Duke Ellington was more than a little worried. Where would he eat if there was no crate? But I had a plan. I set up a special mat and two bowls, just for Duke.
In place of the crate, I set up a tiny table for the kids to use. Duke Ellington helped during the set up process. His favorite place to be was in foster mom’s lap. His second favorite place to be was in the building area on the packing material.
Duke did a great job when it was time for his next meal. He was timid at first, but finished all of his food with some encouragement.
When it was time for the kids to eat, Duke Ellington finally agreed with me- no crate is needed! The new table is perfect because crumbs from messy kids are even more accessible than before.
6/13/23 Update: Have you always loved Bulldogs, but wanted a smaller one? Say hello to Duke!
This little adoraBullie is nearly 2 years young, as sweet as can be, and ready to be your best pal.
He is settling in well with his foster family and getting to know the resident Queen of the Couch, Margie.
This little nugget of love has some medical needs that are easy to handle: eye drops and some medication for his ticker.
Get those apps in fast – this little guy is ready to be your new best friend!
7/21/23 Update: I’m doing great in my foster home.
I’m pottying outside ~ I figured out the dog door which helps a lot.
I get along great with the resident Bulldogs.
I like to snuggle, follow my foster mom around and nap on the cold tile floor.
I’ll be 2 years old next month. I heard about this thing called a “birthday party.” I can’t wait.
I’m just an adorable pint-sized guy I do have some health issues with my heart, but nothing that take away from my fun though.
