Meet Charlie!
On a Monday afternoon, at the Community Veterinary Center's low-cost clinic for low-income pet owners, this giant dog walked through the door. His gray face revealed his years as he looked around the room. He didn't look entirely happy about being there. His Dad spoke soft words of encouragement and Charlie lowered his massive body to the floor.
Charlie's owner had brought in his enormous friend because of the sores between his toes.
After all the paperwork establishing his owner's level of income, Charlie stepped on the scale in the waiting room. The numbers flew past and finally settled on 167 pounds. The big boy was ten-years-old, unusually old for a dog his size. That speaks highly of the love and care his human showers on his big pal. But it wasn't always that way. Ten years ago, Charlie was purchased as a puppy by another person and taken home to live in a cramped trailer. As he grew most likely the trailer became more and more cramped until his first owner decided to sell the big boy. That's when Charlie's angel came along and purchased him. Charlie's life took a turn for the better. He became a much loved pet of an owner who understands the commitment that comes with owning such a large dog.
Charlie is an English Mastiff. The ancient breed was developed to guard English royalty. It is said a mastiff sat on each side of the monarch's throne whenever court was held. Charlie still lives up to his heritage. If a stranger knocks on his family's door, he assumes a position blocking entry until he's assured it's safe.
While Charlie waited his turn to see the veterinarian, a volunteer staff person found a tape measure and discovered every part of Charlie was, indeed, over sized. His feet measured four inches by five inches. He stood 32 inches at the shoulders, and was 48 inches from the top of his head to the beginning of his tail. His massive legs were 18 inches long.
After his examination, Charlie plodded out of the exam room. His owner held a list of instructions and a bottle of medicine that would end Charlie's toe woes. After his bill was paid, Charlie politely--but resolutely--led the way to the door.
