09/25/2024
So-as usual-this outfits rolls a little rough. Thank God the Shorthairs are long on toughness. Hunted this past weekend for Sharpies and Huns with great success and tons of birds, deer and antelope, yes playing, were seen.
Sarah encountered something solid and managed a pretty good cut that needed stitches. Ozzie, the wonder puppy (9 months old) ran into a large rattle snake. Sunday morning, of course...Got him back to the vehicle and gave him a Benadryl, managed to get in contact with Tami from the Faith Veterinary Clinic who could not make it to the clinic for about 2 and a half hours. She let me know that he needed 1 CC of Dexasone as soon as possible.
He was in beyond bad shape and totally unresponsive and basically dead as I arrived to town. I had managed to get in contact with Cody Bernstein and he directed me where to find the drug, needles and syringes on the Tim Bernstein ranch. A quick poke and he was soon able to at least partially open his eyes and began to breathe much better. By the time Tammy arrived at the clinic he was attempting to stand and walk. Not very well, but trying nonetheless.
She administered the anti-venom and antibiotics via IV and a truly amazing recovery was made in a short time. He was a little rough looking, but able to walk well by the time she had Sarah stitched up. By yesterday evening, he was full force Ozzie. Raising holy hell with pack mates to play with him. Sarah showing no sign of wear as well.
Brenda who works at M and D Convenience store as well as Horns Up Bar and Casino ask if we were needing a place to eat on Sunday evening and opened up for us. Unbelievable. The folks at the Prairie Vista Motel also do a great job of accommodating us hunters.
Basically the kindness, hospitality and helpfulness of the folks in this West River town showed the very real and old school values of South Dakota. I cannot say enough about how well we were treated.
Quite frankly, Ozzie would not have made it without all the help I received from just a couple of quick phone calls. And, we got to eat some great food on Sunday!
I have been to Faith many, many times over the years hunting and you can be assured I will continue to as long as my health allows it.
Thank you Faith...