Reborn TelenineJackieTheBear was created to honor my German Shepherd, Jackie (nickname "The Bear"), who tragically passed away during a Search & Rescue exercise where she and another team member (who would survive) consumed anti-freeze laced bait that had been left out by ranchers to kill stray dogs that were bothering their cattle. Jackie was able to survive the initial poisoning, but due to her age (she was 17 years old at the time) the stress from recovery triggered an auto immune condition and she passed away at home surrounded by loved ones about 72 hours after the initial poisoning. Her illness and death made headlines around the state and $3,000 was raised to help cover veterinary and cremation expenses, as well as offer opportunities for the Search & Rescue Canine Team in the future. It also led to an investigation by Fish & Game Officials who interviewed and warned ranchers that they were not allowed to put out any traps, poisoned or otherwise, on BLM, National Forest, and other publicly owned areas of land, even if they had grazing rights and permits. Pet owners around the area became more aware of what anti-freeze could do to a dog and became more vigilant about what their dogs were consuming while on public trails. While her death was tragic and sudden, she died doing what she loved and in the comfort of her home and her death triggered an awareness for other pet owners to be aware of their surroundings.
