Joe David hanging out with his favorite toy.
Joe David, was rescued by a stream in Marble Falls, Texas where he had been abandoned when he was just 8 weeks old. He is “mostly Lab” and in September celebrates his 13th birthday and four years as a bone cancer survivor. His left hind leg was amputated four years ago and his surgeon said he would probably live ONE year, but Joe David didn’t listen to the prognosis. He began 12 months of chemo, and his oncologist gave him six months. Once again, Joe David didn’t buy the prognosis.
He adjusted to his new lifestyle learning to hop-walk and hop-run. He has defied all odds.
His reason for living, other than the love and attention of his family, is TREATS! He knows the word, even if you spell it T-R-E-A-T-S. He knows they are in the pantry, so he sits by the door and barks until he gets his treats. He loves stuffed toys, and when you say “football” he goes to his toy basket and gets his little UT football. When it is tossed in the air, and you say “touchdown Joe David” he catches it in mid air. We all cheer and clap and his tail wags incessantly.
Joe David loves going to the Gaddis’ Double Heart Ranch. In earlier days, he would run as fast as Jordan Shipley and bark at the Longhorn cattle and woodland creatures—now he rides in a jeep.
He has two friends, Emma and Cleo, both rescued dogs. They both know that Mr. JD is TOP DOG.
He is an inspiration and joy to his family and many friends. His three legs are weak, bowed and overworked and he sleeps most of the time. He has an adorable and happy personality, and is a little clown that makes us laugh out loud at his antics. I bet he will make it to 14!
