09/16/2025
Kirk Douglas lived 9 years in an unheated shed with his son Michael (see separate post) They were given no names, were filthy, loaded with fleas, had bad teeth, no vet care and very little human contact. Even with all that, Kirk and son are both the most affectionate loving boys you'll ever meet.
We were thrilled these darling boys could, finally, live the life they so deserved.....a life filled with soft, fluffy blankets and toys, nutritious food and a loving family! After several visits to our wonderful vet, we were dismayed to discover that Kirk was suffering from cancer, B-cell Lymphoma to be exact. Best scenario he can live a "normal" life span. Our goal for him is still to find that family to love and cherish while he remains on a maintenance dose of medication to keep the cancer from spreading.
Kirk is a 9-year-old, 15 lb., long hair, black-n-tan dachshund. He is a happy man who definitely wants to stay close to his person. Velcro dog is an understatement. He will follow (or walk in front of) you EVERYWHERE. Once you sit down, he'll be right beside you, keeping you company. He does well in a kennel and will gladly go in with some help from treats.
After an initial meeting, Kirk does well with other small dogs and even large dogs. He can get a tad possessive of his person but is learning that his low quiet growl is not getting him anywhere but placed on the floor. He loves to eat, which is magnified by the medication he is on. In order to keep him from "helping himself" to others' food he is currently fed in his kennel.
Favorite pastime is exploring and hunting outside. Once Kirk sees a bunny or squirrel he is obsessed and will no longer hear or see you or anything else. He is determined to get the critter. Hence, a secure fence is suggested. He does alright with a leash, but it is a bit foreign to him still. He continues to work on potty training since he lived in a shed and didn't have any rules, making learning boundaries and expectations a slow process.
Kirk is a sweet fellow who simply needs some extra care and lots of love in the last few years of his life. It's a special thing to open your home to a cancer dog for however long they may have, but then, Kirk Douglas is a special dachie.
Adoption donation for Kirk is $125 which goes toward the high cost of veterinary care for our rescue dogs. Adoption applications can be found on our website at www.wagntainterrierrescue.com
