Five years ago, Jet, a German shorthaired pointer, was in dreadful condition.
For weeks he had hidden under the porch of an unoccupied house in Humboldt each day, waiting for nightfall. Then, hed traipse through the neighborhood and beyond looking for tidbits in the trash. His meals often were meager.
Jets weight dropped precipitously. His ribs showed prominently, and a nameless collar around his neck, tight perhaps because of a callous owner, made swallowing a chore.
A neighbor, distressed by his condition, called Brenda Clark, known to have a soft heart for dogs.
Brenda responded.
I knew no one had been able to catch him and doubted if Id have much luck. But, as the owner of two dogs, she wasnt deterred.
So she drove to Jets refuge and when she came close, he shot out from under the porch like a 747. Thats why I call him Jet.
With him eyeing her suspiciously from the middle of the street, Brenda filled bowls with food and water. Jet kept his distance until Brenda started to drive away. Then, he gingerly approached and smelled the offerings, before gobbling down the tasty food.
Brenda continued to bring food and water. His collar was so tight he choked on each bite of food.
The third day he approached her, and likely smelled Brendas two dogs on her. Something clicked. The next evening she was able, with patience and soft words, to pet the leery outcast.
He flinched every time I put my hand on his neck. My guess is it had been a long time since anyone had touched him in a loving manner.
Eventually, she was able to loosen the buckle on the collar. The next morning it was lying on the ground.
That opened the door for dry food, rather than the soft, moist food Brenda had been giving him. Police officers were on alert for the wayward canine. One noticed Brendas ongoing efforts, and laughed when she said she wanted to take Jet home. Lady, if you can catch that dog you can have him. Weve had calls from all over town, with homeowners threatening to shoot him for tearing into trash.
Eventually, Jet followed her home, but wouldnt go inside her fenced yard. Jet ran the four blocks back to the old house, where he felt safe.
Again, patience was the key.
He had more run-ins with officers, but managed to elude them.
In time, he joined Brendas household, quickly making friends with his two housemates.
The main thing is that he finally has a home, Brenda said.
