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Taz - the Outstanding Rescued Golden of 2006!
Since the 2001 Golden Retriever Club of America's National Specialty, Rescue A Golden of Arizona has presented the G.R.A.C.E. Awards to extra-ordinary rescued Goldens. G.R.A.C.E. stands for Golden Rescue And Community Excellence. I would like to present to you all the Outstanding Rescued Golden of 2006, Taz. Rescue A Golden of Arizona has not given the Outstanding G.R.A.C.E. Award for two years, and Taz truly deserves this recognition.
Taz was rescued by Love A Golden Rescue of St. Louis, MO, in October 2002 when he was about 6 months old. His owners were moving and did not want to take him. He had a severely deformed right front foot, probably the result of a birth defect. Once in Rescue, it was determined that his leg needed to be amputated. While recuperating at the vet's, Taz dazzled the staff with his sweetness and loving personality. Within a surprisingly short time, Taz was functioning well as a tripod.
Taz's foster family, Jan and Ray Knoche of Maryland Heights, MO, became his adoptive family in November 2002. Ray helped Taz develop strength by doing exercises with him. Taz completed obedience and therapy dog training in 2004. Since then, Taz has been a regular visitor to a skilled nursing facility and to the Ranken Jordan Pediatric Rehabilitation Facility. He has assisted in the recuperative process of many disabled children and adults.
Giving back even more, Taz is also a regular canine blood donor at the St. Louis Animal Blood Bank.
In addition, Taz plays an important role in helping new foster dogs get adjusted to their new temporary home. He teaches his new foster friends to share, have manners and get along well with others. He also attends events to help educate the public about Rescue.
Taz is a very loving Golden Retriever who has devoted his life to giving and caring for others despite his own hardships.
We applaud Taz - the Outstanding Rescued Golden of 2006!