In the face of overwhelming odds, a tiny collie puppy's will to live becomes a testament to perseverance and the power of dedicated care. This is the story of Lochranza Lionheart, affectionately known as Raff, who overcame a precarious start to life to embody the spirit of a champion. From a fragile newborn struggling for survival to a robust collie with a heart of gold, Raff's journey is a remarkable narrative of resilience and the unbreakable bond between a dog and its human.
Meredith Moore's home had always been graced with the presence of at least one collie. Inspired by tales of "Lassie" and the writings of Albert Payson Terhune, Meredith's passion for collies grew into a dream of starting a small breeding kennel. After extensive research and preparation spanning a decade, Meredith was ready to welcome the first litter from her carefully selected breeding stock. The cornerstone of her breeding program was a line from Pennsylvania's Lochranza Kennels, renowned for Champion Amberlyn's Bright Tribute, a Best-in-Show winner with an impressive lineage.
The excitement of the first litter's arrival was marred by tragedy as five of the ten puppies were stillborn, and two more passed away shortly after birth. The remaining three, two healthy females and one male, faced an uphill battle for survival. The male, significantly smaller and weaker than his siblings, was named Lochranza Lionheart for his incredible will to live.
Lochranza Lionheart, or Raff, was born prematurely and required round-the-clock care. Meredith's veterinarian gave the puppy a slim chance of survival, noting his fetal appearance and hairless spots. Despite the grim prognosis, Meredith was determined to nurse Raff to health. With the support of her clients, she dedicated herself to feeding Raff every two hours through a syringe and later a baby bottle.
Against all odds, Raff's condition improved. At two and a half weeks old, he weighed a mere 15 ounces, but his spirit was unyielding. His first successful attempt to nurse from his mother marked a turning point in his recovery, and Meredith knew her "little man" was going to live.
Raff's name was inspired by an Arabian horse named Raffles, who overcame numerous challenges to become a legendary sire. Like Raffles, Raff demonstrated an indomitable spirit and a tenacity that endeared him to Meredith.
As Raff grew, he displayed a fierce determination. When play-fighting with his siblings, he learned to hold his own, embodying the strength of his namesake. His training with sheep revealed a natural aptitude, and though he didn't win his first stockdog trial, he showed promise and earned admiration for his work ethic.
An old superstition holds that a working dog of the highest caliber will have a black mouth-roof, a trait Raff possesses. Meredith sees this as a sign of his potential for greatness, perhaps even a National Championship in his future.
Raff has grown into a dog that not only survived against the odds but thrived, surpassing his sire in stature and embodying the timeless beauty of the breed's greats. His "look of eagles" reflects the heart, strength, and courage that have made him Meredith's personal miracle.
Breeders often debate the merits of taking extraordinary measures to save puppies that might not otherwise survive. While some argue for letting nature take its course, others, like Meredith, believe in doing everything possible to save a life. Raff's story is a testament to the latter approach, showcasing the rewards of dedication and the profound impact one dog can have on a human's life.
Meredith's answer to whether it was worth the effort to save Raff is clear every time she looks into his eyes. The love and gratitude reflected back at her affirm that the decision to fight for his life was the right one.
For more insights into the world of collies and the people who love them, visit the American Kennel Club or explore the Collie Club of America.
Photos of Raff and his remarkable journey can be found at the Canada's Guide to Dogs website, with additional images available upon request.
