Big Ben was left tied to a shelter gate in eastern Pennsylvania with a note saying "My name is Buck and I have hip problems and other health problems. My owners can't afford me. I'm about 2-3 years old. They think I swallowed a rag. My destiny is in your hands." Well thankfully, he didn't get a blockage or die that night. The shelter called us and we brought him home. Went off to see Dr. Vivien where we did hip, elbow, stifles, and hock joint x-rays. Hips and elbows are fine. But Big Ben has a totally blown knee on his left hind leg.

We were referred to Dr. Paul Bookbinder from Upstate Veterinary Surgical Center in Canastota, NY, one of the best in the state. Dr. Paul feels we can get this guy sound and whole again with a knee replacement surgery. The cost will be about $1500. Big Ben will need a 3 month slow controlled recuperation. We also found out that he has lime disease and has now been through 3 weeks of treatment for that. And we're trying to get at least 10 more pounds on him for the surgery because he was very thin with ribs and hips showing.

We decided to rename him Big Ben since we already had a Buckeye and Buckie here when he came in. Plus the name fits him better (or maybe Marmaduke! VBG) Ben is a very large oversized Chesapeake. He stands 28 1/4 " at the shoulders, weighs about 105 lbs. (with 10 more needed). And as big as he is, Ben is just sweet, gentle, and wonderful! Truly a big cuddly goof of a bear-like boy. He's got a bark that pulls up from his toes, almost like a lion roar it's so deep. But he's got a twinkle in his eye and his tail goes a mile a minute.

When he's through with his surgery and recouping time, Big Ben will be a wonderful dog for someone. He's great with other dogs, cats, and loves people. Having him in my small house is like have having a pony around. Now I have some idea what living with a Great Dane is like! LOL. He works his way into your heart real fast and easy.    

So, we hope that you'll open your heart and send a taxable donation to help this great Chessie. Ben's got a heart as big as he is. He's well worth whatever time, effort, and money we put into him. So, please help this sweet boy. Send a check payable to NY CBR Rescue with "Big Ben Surgery" in the memo. Let's make Ben's life better than what it has been.

Sandie Pappa
NY CBR Rescue
2870 Chase Road
Rock Stream, NY 14878

A breeder who rescues. A breeder who cares. A keeper of the breed.        Click for MORE PHOTOS!