Ferdinand Red | A Journey of Loving the Unloved

There’s no doubt about it. 2020 has been a year to remember for the entire world. As we spent many days inside during the pandemic, I followed this sweet story of finding light during dark days. I hope this story inspires you to find the gifts in each day and to give the unloved a chance to be loved. Keep reading to see Erika’s diary and reflections of this journey of love and new life. (Rhondalyn)

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Life Before the Journey

I am a happy person most of the time, but times were not good when Red came along. This journey was definitely a surprise.

The Coronavirus played a huge part in our journey. It forced us to be home, and to look for things to keep us busy. We live on a dirt road, so we started taking the golf cart down the road daily, something we seldom did before. While out, we found Red living in a hidden spot, afraid and hungry. We knew we had to save this scared, hungry dog. 

We had two large dogs already, so we just hoped to find him a good, patient, and loving home. Life had been difficult recently, for reasons we had no control over. Depression was a constant threat, and I was starting to slide into that state.

March 27

This beautiful baby was dumped on our dirt road about 2 weeks ago, along with a black lab. He has obviously been treated badly by humans, he won't let anyone get close. We give him food and fresh water twice daily, and a few treats in between. I've named him Big Red, hopefully, he will learn to trust us so we can help him find a wonderful home somewhere. His buddy is gone, so now he is alone, it breaks my heart. I won't give up on him, no matter how long it takes.

Getting Started on the Journey

There was no preparation for this journey. It was more of a slow progression that took us a step at the time, until we realized we were already on the journey.

We were happy that we had the opportunity to make this journey with Red, he needed us, and we needed him, although we did not know that at the time.

Once we were on the road, we found that the sadness we were feeling was lifting, and LOVE for this sweet boy was taking over.

There were many trials, first was getting Red to not run in fear from us, he had obviously been treated badly, he did not trust anyone. It took almost 3 weeks for us to touch him, I had to get down on my stomach before he would come close enough to actually put my hands on him. With each passing day we fell more in love with him, so each step was big and brought hope for the next challenge.

We expected to find a good, safe, patient and loving home for Red. The thought of keeping him was still not the destination, we already had two BIG dogs.

We found so much support, advice, caring and hope from my friends and family, but also from sharing this on Facebook. People checked on him, prayed for Red and us too, that we would be able to help him find a happy life.

March 28

Annnd, we have contact!!!

March 28

Red got some worm meds in his food tonight, and he was actually playful and excited when he saw us coming down the road. He's learning to trust us, I sat for about 20 minutes hoping he would come closer, he didn't, but that tail was wagging!!

March 29

This beautiful boy is looking healthier everyday, not afraid anymore, but still won't come to either of us. I can't believe how gorgeous he is becoming!

March 30

We had some quality time this afternoon, I brought hamburger patties and sat down. I had to throw one, but he took the rest from my hand. After that, he sat close by, but still holding out! I got a selfie with him as I walked back to the house!

April 1

Red is still playing hard to get 🙃

A friend suggested that I lay on my belly, he did seem more comfortable, it's just going to take awhile!

April 3

The dirt road was busier than usual today, we fed everyone!! He sat and watched while we fed the horses, he's getting closer to letting us pet him.

April 4

Red is getting braver, and mostly hanging out in the front yard now. We're making progress, slowly but surely!

April 5

He's torn now, between staying where his buddy went missing and our front porch. He sits by us, but still runs if you attempt to pet him. I doubt that it will be much longer before he gives in 🙂

Yay!!

April 6

I walked outside at 5 am to find Red sleeping on the bed we put out on the porch for him! I also had the pleasure of actually petting him, and scratching behind his ears 🙂😘❤🐶🐕 the next hurdle is to get him to the vet to make sure he is physically okay. His life is going to be easy from now on, and we are thrilled that he decided to share it with us!

I'm outside, watering flowers and taking pics when this happens!! He walked right up behind them and waited for me to get his pic too, he knows what his future holds in store!

Trials Through the Journey

Every step was a challenge, trying to get him to trust us was the biggest. His fear was bigger than we could have imagined, and it applied to everything. Loud noises, carrying anything in our hands, moving too fast, everything scared him.

Patience, prayer and the love that was growing in us for him helped us face each challenge, many times we thought he would never come around, slow progress was better than none.

Everyone who knew about Red prayed for him, and for us. They told us not to give up, and shared their stories of rescued dogs. They encouraged us, and followed his every accomplishment.

April 7

We hit a bump in the road last night. Dan and I had to bring food, and check on someone who can't get out. We left together in Dan's truck, when we returned, we couldn't find Red. We got in the golf cart and went down to his hiding place on the dirt road, he was there, but wouldn't come to us. It was almost dark, so we dropped some treats and hoped he would follow us back home. After a few minutes, he came back. So now, we see that when both of us leave it's traumatic for him. Today we both have to work, and I would appreciate some prayers that he will know we are coming back this afternoon. This sweet baby has been through a lot, it's going to take awhile for him to feel secure!!

April 7

I stood outside waiting for the clouds to clear long enough to see the full moon, it took awhile and only lasted a minute. I guess it looks more orange than pink, it is big and beautiful! Red watched with me, right by my side!

April 8

Well, yesterday he seemed good, and slept on the porch last night. Today he has been reluctant to accept any love, and now he is back in his hiding place. 😪 I have been down on foot twice, but he just backs up into the woods when I get close. Dan and I will go down on the golf cart when he gets home and see if he'll follow us. I hope he comes around soon, it just hurts my heart!

Current status, the golf cart ride did the trick! I guess it's just going to be on his terms, I doubt that anyone could understand what he has been through. I have flea and and tick treatment that I can put on him when he's not soaking wet. He is healthier, happier (sometimes) and safer, so that will have to do for now.

Overcoming the Trials

Each new situation called for prayer, and we did a lot of that. So many watching the story unfold also helped with great advice and prayers.

The tools we used were tried and true, patience, love and kindness. Our friends were always there to help whenever possible, he had lots of love coming his way!

April 9

He is happy and feeling good this morning.
I love our quiet dirt road, social distancing at it's best!!

We did some serious porch sitting today, did some bonding too! I worked in the flowerbeds some, he tried to help, I gave up 😆 now we are birdwatching!

April 10

Blessed with these beautiful fur babies! Life may be confusing for us, but they know how to make it soooooo much better!

Red is finally playing, and feeling like this is his home. We had groceries delivered and he didn't run off, BIG step for him! He didn't leave when I went to the botanical gardens, and met me when I drove up, I think he knows he is staying! Thank you to everyone who has worried with us, said a prayer, cheered Red and us on, you made this journey even better!

April 11

Happy Saturday!! It's really wonderful getting to see Red like this, the perfect way to start the day!!

A week ago he was still shaking, skiddish and skinny, just look at him now! He is doing really great, he hangs with me every step I take outside. We take afternoon golf cart rides and he loves running with it. We go see the horses, or cows, look for turkeys and butterflies. He met someone new today, and even let them pet him for a minute. I love my new buddy!!

Treasures Along the Journey

Red becoming part of our family was the greatest treasure!

The biggest surprise was that we HAD to keep him and make our home his home forever. He has healed the hurt in our hearts, just as we have healed him.

The best thing that came from this journey is the huge amount of love we have for Red, and him for us. He is still afraid of OTHER people, but his joy with us is overwhelming, care free too. We needed this boy maybe more than he needed us, we will continue to nurture him and hope that he will trust others one day!

Our hearts needed repair, as did his, and GOD put us together for that reason. We also learned that the things we fight the hardest for, are the most treasured!!!

April 12

Easter blessings are different for everyone, this year Red was our gift! GOD knew we needed this fella as much as he needed us. A chance to do better, make a difference, and give love to one of his creations! This is our first selfie together, and definitely not our last. Happy Easter, remember what it truly is all about ❤

This loveable boy, he is learning the ropes of being in our crew! He is happy (all the time) he plays hard and loves BIG! Today we learned we can't run through Mama's flowers, after a couple of fatalities 🙃 and a gentle no, he is now walking around them. He is really smart, we got the collar on, but had to resize, I will try again tomorrow! Oh yes, HE LET ME RUB HIS BELLY 🥰😊❤

April 13

We didn't have any problems during the storms last night, but no power since early morning. So Red and I are hanging out on the front porch, listening to the birds sing 🐕😊

You knew it was coming, the lilies are starting to bloom!

April 14

I think we have reached the spoiled baby comfort zone now 😊 he looks handsome in that red collar too!

Soooooooo, we learned that this guy can and will howl, really really loud...LOL! Red is my first lab, so this caught me by surprise. Do all labs howl? We had a lot of activity today at the house, plus we both had to work, he ran off twice, but came back both times 🐕❤😀 I guess that howling wore him out 🤣

April 15

Who remembers "Ferdinand the Bull"? This boy will admire and smell the flowers outside, he literally is PERFECT for me! He is not panicking much anymore, gives me the belly to rub, and is settling in so well!

April 16

Just look at this loveable goofy baby! He is making great progress in trusting us, but he will still hide if a package gets delivered 😀 he loves to rest his head on my shoulder!!

April 17

We got some exercise on the dirt road, and then while I worked in the flower beds, Red napped on the front doorstep! And the living is easy....

April 18

We went for a ride and did some exploring off the dirt road, fed the horses, and chased a few butterflies. I love how excited he gets when he sees the golf cart! This sweet boy has earned a special spot with Mom and Dad!!

April 19

A lazy day sitting on the porch, he is quite remarkable. He watches the birds and butterflies, but doesn't bother any of them. I have tried playing fetch with him, but no sale so far 😊 he does have the sweetest temperament of any dog I have ever loved!!!

April 21

It's been 2 weeks since Red first ventured onto our front porch. He has made big steps since then. He is happy, healthy, and looks forward to our afternoon rides down the dirt road. No more fear, hunger or hiding, except for package deliveries!! He has both of us wrapped around his big paws, and we couldn't imagine life without him now!

April 22

Good morning and happy hump day!!

Red has adjusted well to his new life, except for meeting new people 😉 but in time he will come to know he is safe!! He sees me off to work, lounges in his bed, rolls around in the yard and watches for my return. This life is what he deserves, we sure are lucky he found us!!

April 26

Red is full of surprises, and hidden talents! Yesterday afternoon we see "free roaming" cows from our bedroom window, a lot of them, the entire herd had escaped the pasture. You know me, I went for the camera and the front porch. When I got outside one calf was about to get on the busy road, and the rest were following. All of the sudden Red starts barking, and ran out to head him off at the corner. Then I watched in amazement as he ran the entire herd back to their pasture, every single one of them. Dan and I were both saying...did you see that??? Who knew?!?

April 28

I had to work, he was sulking in the top pic 😅 but when I got home, he forgave me!!

April 29

Look Mama, I found your paper!!! Good morning world!!

May 1

It's been 3 weeks since Red came to the house, he has relaxed some, and we've both learned a lot about each other. He is afraid of the water hose, but loves to play in the rain. Once he got over his fear of the towel, I dried him off. He immediately ran back out into the rain, then came back for more drying time! He is pure sunshine first thing in the morning, running with the golf cart makes him happy, and he makes us happier! I always say life is full of surprises, I'm glad we were surprised with Ferdinand Red!!

May 7

Early morning fun with Red! I went out this morning, he just wanted to play, so we did!! Quarantine has it's perks!!

The Journey Now

Our lives will never be the same, yes, one lost dog was that big. We are happier because of him, and love him with all of our hearts!

We learned that plans mean nothing, just because “we” think one thing doesn’t mean it will be that way. Life as a whole is a journey, be open to the forks in the road, they can lead to the best places.

I cannot tell you how much we have grown from this experience, as a believer in GOD, and as a person. LOVE for another is the best way to find happiness for yourself. No matter how bad things may be, tomorrow can bring you something better.

This journey will last as long as we love Red, his fears and battles are still very real, we will never give up on him. We didn’t know we would take this journey, even as it had already begun, but we sure are glad we did!!

May 8

We each learned something new the last couple of days, I learned that even though he is afraid of the delivery person, he's quite fond of stealing my packages taking them into the yard and trying to chew them open 😆🤭 we have to work in that!!! And he learned that electric fences will hurt you, even though Mom and Dad tried to tell him before he got shocked! He is fine, and a bit wiser!! The adventures continue!!

May 13

I think he knows he is handsome, he practically poses! He is doing great, we can now get the leash on him without causing panic, if you tug he does, baby steps! We saw our granddaughter and family on Sunday, he did stay close and even stretched out on his bed for awhile. Our daughter pet him a little bit, so we are making progress! He is so spoiled, and so are we! I don't know what I did before Red, early mornings are the absolute best!!

July 30

The first picture was the last one of Red in his hiding place, he sure has come a long way in a few months! We have a special bond, I know that GOD placed us in each other's lives

The picture with the ball in his mouth makes me laugh every time I see it!

Challenge and Advice to Others

• Trust GOD, he knows where we should be!

• No matter how tough life is, it can always be tougher without LOVE and GOD!

• Call on others to help with advice, love, and prayer.

• Allow your plans to be interrupted, don’t be afraid to find out what is over the next hill, and trust that GOD is guiding us every day!!