Laz sprinting on the road to recovery

SANDPOINT — Lazaruff is putting impressive distance between himself and the early grave he was briefly destined for.

And the pit bull, which was adopted by a Bonner County couple last month, is doing it with a quickness.

A brief video posted to social media shows Lazaruff enthusiastically sprinting like a jackrabbit along the shore of Lake Pend Oreille. A slow-motion portion of the clip captures Laz’s powerful strides and goofy contentment.

Lazaruff’s condition is a far cry from the one he was found in an abandoned home in St. Landry Parish, La., last year. He was so emaciated that euthanasia was recommended, although he managed to stave off that fate at the last minute with a wag of his ropey tail, which earned him a biblical moniker for nearly coming back from the dead.

Renowned veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker, who documented Lazaruff’s journey from death’s door to the home of Terry and Breanna Franck on his blog. The Francks adopted adopted Laz via the Panhandle Animal Shelter’s Home to Home program, which aims for seamless pet adoptions.

Becker said Laz went from being intimidated by the 18-inch hop onto a motel bed during his trek from Louisiana to Idaho to jumping expertly between them by the time he made it to the Inland Northwest.

“He was flying between beds,” Becker said, adding that Laz has a habit of hogging beds as well when it’s time to turn in for the night.

Laz was suspected of being used as a bait dog in Cajun-country dog fighting. The bloodsport involves setting fighting dogs upon a chained or confined dog for training purposes.

Becker and his wife, Teresa, doubt Laz knew of the concept of play or a life that didn’t involved being leashed or tethered to something.

“He’s always been on a leash,” Teresa Becker said. “He’s never been able to run free.”

Laz was also exhibited a fear-based aggression when he was rescued, raising concerns about how me might interact with fellow canines.

Marty Becker said Laz apparently has an extroverted side which has him ambling up to other dogs with no problems.

“It’s just magical,” Becker said.

Moreover, Laz’s medical needs are covered for life. North Idaho Animal Hospital is covering his veterinary health insurance premiums, according to the Beckers.

“He’ll always have healthcare now,” Marty Becker said.

The Francks and Laz, meanwhile, have forged a tight connection with each other during their various outings and excursions, according to the renowned veterinarian.

“They’ve made the dog the center of their lives,” Marty Becker said.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.