Im a member of BTS. net and I came across this story today.You guys should read it,its long but check it out.When I try to link to threads their it wont work so I just cut and paste,lets try 
Chuff's Story. the book.
Author Message SailleSkinklover
Flame Faerie
Joined: 16 Jul 2007
Posts: 2041
Location: Everett WA
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 2:29 pm Post subject: Chuff's Story. the book. 
The Great Escape!
I have always enjoyed taking my Merauke Blue Tongue Skink, Chuff Chuff, outside because I am of the old school belief that fresh air and sunshine is good for not only the body but the soul as well.
Well, this past summer of 2008 became rather psycho-busy and it was sometimes left to Tony to take Chuff outside and let him play in his little outdoor pen, as I was not able to get home in time. This had occurred many times with no problems, until the fateful Friday of July 11th.
I was on my way to Federal Way to pick up a Crested Gecko and I was on the phone with Tony. He was looking out the window at Chuffie nosing at the pen, trying to figure his way out, and he commented on it.
Right then and there, I almost said, Ya know, Tone, just go out and bring him in, makes me nervous that hes so restless.
But I didnt. Big mistake. Tony and I hung up the phone, I navigated more traffic, and about 6 minutes later my phone rang again. It was Tony telling me, Chuff has got out!
What? Are you kidding me? Oh (insert expletive), Go Look!!!! I am on my way!
And of course, the Friday Night Traffic Gods were all against me. It took me over two hours to get home. On the way, just at the beginning of our little wooded country road, I saw the police lights behind me. I let loose a string of very choice words, and waited for what seemed like FOREVER for the cop to get to my window. He was a nice young fellow, ginger haired, and I practically threw my license at him. I garbled how I needed to get home right this second, my lizard had escaped his pen and I need to find him ASAP especially before dark and that if he needed to write me a ticket, he was gonna have to follow me home and give it to me there, or mail it to me or whatever, I needed to go, he could help look for Chuff Chuff but I had to go right NOW!!!!
Needless to say, he did let me go with no ticket (I probably scared him; I was the crazy lady babbling about an escaped lizard, after all!)!
After what had become a painfully long and evil commute, I hurtled down our small wooded road doing well above the speed limit of 35 MPH and finally screeched into the driveway. I leapt out, and found a much disheveled Tony in the back still looking feverishly everywhere.
We both circled outward from where Chuffie had last been seen but to no avail. Tony went in to get some food, hoping that would tempt him out.
Over the next few weeks, we tried many things. I made flyers and posted them all around town. I gave one to every neighbor within any sort of distance that I thought Chuff might be, up to about a half mile away in each possible direction. I called Animal Control and I called the shelters. I called the Carnation Police and explained it. I posted ads in the Pets and Lost and Found on Craigslist. I contacted the Pacific Northwest Herpetological Society to see if I could recruit people to come herping at the property. (I did end up joining them and becoming a member by the way!) I offered rewards. We put Chuffies enclosure out, hoping hed smell himself in his old territory and go in it. It was out there for about a month and a half. We tried all his fave foods, but the Stellars Jays got the turkey burger and Chicken, and the ants got the fruit. And during this whole situation, we still had to work and take care of the other animals.
I had horrible images of an eagle swooping down and carrying him off, I could see him in my minds eye, struggling in the talons, silhouetted against the sky. I had nightmares of him getting so cold he died, and me finding his skeleton in the spring.
The worst was the not knowing. But there was nothing we could do. I had many tearful long nights over that crazy Blue Tongue. I thought of all his little quirks, all the funny things he had done, like sleeping in the broom closet, trying to run on the kitchen floor, his little arms and legs pin-wheeling like mad while he didnt really move because he couldnt get a grip on the slick floor, him playing hide-an seek in the house and finally having to be coaxed out with hard boiled eggs and mango. It became harder and harder to go out to Carnation because I was reminded to painfully. Finally, in late August, the weather started turning more autumnal and we brought Chuffs enclosure back inside so the rain wouldnt destroy it.
I became more focused on my Crested Geckos, trying to ease the pain of losing Chuffers. Then one day I got the kindest private message I had ever seen. Jen (MartinsPerson) wrote to me to let me know how sad she felt for Chuffers and I and that she had one little baby Irian Jaya left if I wanted him.
I was very touched by the gesture, and thrilled too at the thought of another Bluey in the house. But I couldnt ever forget my Chuffalumps. He was my first, he had already been through so much and the thoughts and memories of him still hurt so badly. I wondered if I was ready for another Bluey.
Tony and I talked it over briefly but it didnt help me to make my mind up. To make matters worse, I went to a local pet store to pick up some lid clips for some gecko cages and I made the mistake of going in back to look at their reptiles. And they had a Bluey. Of course I asked to see it and it turned out it was a very sweet and rather chunky Irian Jaya. Sadly, the poor thing had absolutely no nails. Obviously there had been previous humidity issues that caused problems with the shedding and constriction had taken the first joints and nails off every finger and toe from this poor animal. However, the rest of it seemed to be in OK shape and temperamentally, it was a very sweet animal.
It was a hard decision to make, to walk away from that Bluey. Part of me wanted to rescue it because I am such a softie that way but I cant justify supporting a pet shop that might just get another mistreated animal in and sell it for a huge amount.
After trying for a couple of weeks to hook up with the shop owner to see if theyd comedown in price, I let it go. But I had made my mind up. I missed having a Bluey in the house.
September came, and Jen and I arranged to meet at the Hillsboro, OR Exotic Animal Expo where I would pick up Abu, the little baby IJ she had offered me. That day turned out to be a great day, I got up at the crack of dawn and a group of 6 of us from the Pacific NW Herp Society road tripped down in my friend Jenns van. At the show I picked up another red Crested Gecko and a little cute fat Pine Isle Rhacodactylus Leachieanus, (New Caledonian Giant Gecko) for a spectacular price as I had wanted one for a while. Best of all I got to meet Jen face to face and pick up little Abu. I also ran into Renee and Martin (DragonTears) from the Bluey forums. I could not get over how teeny Abu was! I just remembered Chuffs big old head and his big flappy blue tongue and to see it in miniature was really charming and ridiculously adorable.
I didnt get home until really late that night. (Well, technically it was the next day as I didnt get in the door until after Midnight!) There was a super worm incident that kept me up much later than I intended but that is another story for another time!
I got my little Bluey settled in and re-named him Marley. Marley is a really fast and really funny active little fellow. Hes a great eater; he even downs his collard greens which I find very pleasing as I know theyre good for him. About a week and a half after I got Marley Tony and I went back to the pet store where the big Bluey with stub toes had been as they were the only shop that carries the lid clips that I use for my gecko cages. Tony was the one who went straight back to see if the big Bluey was still there. Best of all, they had marked the price down by $50. I think it was part of his guilt of Chuff getting out on his watch that prompted him to buy that big stub toed Bluey for me. He liked it as well, having held it on one previous visit. I knew Tony was as heartbroken over Chuff as I was and we both agreed that we just couldnt leave that big Bluey at the store any longer, that if it hadnt been meant to be, it wouldnt have still been there. So we came out of the pet store with Nubbin. I had secretly already named that skink but I had no idea it would still be there a month or so later after the first time I had seen it!
October 11th, I was out in Carnation at Tonys place when I saw Patricia, (the landlady) with a man who looked suspiciously like a Landscaper. I had noticed a big truck in the driveway and I had a wild thought. Grabbing a flyer, I ran outside to talk to them. He was indeed a landscaper, and so I explained to him what had happened with Chuffers and that he was a burrowing lizard and they may find him if theyre digging things up.
If you do find him, put him in a box and call me right away, please!!! Bob, the Landscaper asked me if there was a reward. I replied, Definitely, for his safe and live return to me! I felt better for at least having explained that they may find Chuff, but I didnt get any hopes up and as the week went by I didnt think much more about it.
Thursday night about 7:40 PM, my cell phone rang. I answered it and it was a heavily accented mans voice on the other end. I couldnt understand what he was saying and to make things worse, it sounded like he had his hand over the mouthpiece which muffled his voice on top of trying to figure out what was being communicated through the language barrier. I told him that I thought he had a wrong number but he started saying No, No, and then he put his kid on the phone.
Hello? My dad found your creature, the kid said to me. My mind raced and I said, Creature, you mean lizard?
I think so. the kid answered.
Oh my Gods, how big was it? I asked, wanting to get a description just in case they may have found the wrong animal.
About uhhh, 18 inches, the boy replied. That sounded like Chuff, even though he is about 23 inches total. Close enough!
Where is he? What did you, I mean where,
Tied him with a string on the wire fence.
Huh? Which wire fence, the Llamas? I was so confused, because the property is large and the landlords own llamas that have a wire fence penning them in.
No, no, by the river?
I couldnt think of any wire fence by the river, so I was very confused. I told him that Id call him back and I called Tony immediately. The phone rang and rang and then the answering machine kicked on. Frantic, I hung up and called back because I knew Tony was there. He finally answered and I babbled to him the story. It was past dark out by then, so Tony grabbed the flashlight and went outside to look for Chuff and the string.
I called the people back to pinpoint a more exact area plus the time when they had found Chuff, and finally I understood that they meant the chain link fence that separates the property from the next door neighbors. I called Tony back to try and tell him. I had to call back three times before he was able to answer the phone because the reception is so bad out there. After I finally got Tony back on the phone, he found the string tied to the chain link fence, but no Chuffie. He had me call the people back to confirm whether it was a red string or not. And it was.
I couldnt believe that I had been so close but that Chuff had got away again. You cant tie a lizard to a fence like its a dog!!! Why hadnt they put him in a box like I had asked? I was so upset that he had been tied to a fence out in the open! What if a raccoon or owl came by? All these crazy scenarios played through my head but at least I knew that as of Thursday afternoon, at 4 PM, Chuff had been alive. I was a mess of emotions, both angry at the lack of communication and the re-escape, but super stoked that Chuff had somehow survived this long out in the wild!
I knew Id never forgive myself if I didnt get my butt out there and look for him. I had spent the night there on Wednesday night and seen a huge Coyote on my drive there. That Coyote had a very thick full coat so I knew that meant we are in for a rough and cold winter. I just had to find Chuff. I drove the hour drive from Everett to Carnation and as I got there, Josh, the landlord was there. I explained that Chuff may have been found but was loose again, could he help me look? Josh is a good guy and went in to grab a flashlight. I went inside to get one as well and Tony was talking to Joshs partner, Patricia, about how were going to heat the house for this upcoming winter. I burst in, grabbed the flashlight, and darted back outside to look for Chuffers. Josh helped me for about 15-20 minutes then he had to go in as he hadnt eaten all day. I looked for about an hour more in the cold damp tall wet grass. No Chuff. Heartbroken and frustrated beyond belief, I finally went inside.
After a tearful dinner, Tony and I dug out Chuffs travel box. At day break Friday morning, I saw the landscapers. I met Luis, the man who had found Chuffie, and I asked him to show me exactly where he had found Chuffers. He showed me, and I then explained, Today, if you see him again, catch him and put him in this box!
He bite? Luis asked me.
No, all you have to do is take a towel, throw it over him, scoop him up in the towel and put him in the box. Put something heavy on top so he cant get back out and call me!!
Luis nodded but I was apprehensive that he had really understood what I meant.
After another look around the yard in the area where Chuff had been found and re-escaped, I conceded that I had to go into work.
At lunch, I went back up to Everett and took care of the geckos who I had neglected the Thursday night in my frantic rush to go find Chuff. I had left all the lights on, the computer running and nobody had gotten fed. I took my whole lunch hour to get them all taken care of and went back to work to finish the huge shipment of binders that had to go out that day.
Thankfully, I got done early and left at about 2:40 to head back to Carnation to go look for Chuffie. It took me about an hour to get back to the house in Carnation. The first thing I did was go look in the yard for Chuff in the area he had been seen. It was futile. No Chuff. Then I noticed the box up on the porch. It looked like there was something on top of it? I ran up there and sure enough, Chuffs big brick basking rock was on top of the box and it was also taped shut.
I threw the stuff off and carefully opened the box. All I saw were the blue and green towels that had been in there. I carefully started to move the towels around and then I heard the most wonderful sound in the world at that moment, the low sighing huff that Chuff would make when I would go to wake him up for food. I folded the towel back and there he was, all filthy and with caked mud.
Oh Chuff! I whispered, carefully pulling him up out of the box. He was so cold and floppy feeling. I took a quick look and all limbs were there, though they appeared a little swollen. I had never been so happy to see Chuff gape at me. This was actually the only time he has looked me squarely in the face and opened his mouth. He gaped his huge maw at me I saw that beloved blue tongue. But it looked so pale, as did the rest of his mouth! I was terrified and elated at the same time.
I carefully hugged him to me so he could get warmth from my body heat and I brought everything inside. I first called Tony who was overjoyed at the great news. Then I immediately called my vet, who, it turned out, was out of town. I was put on with the other vet at tat office who I had had a previous bad experience with, (though I know shes good with birds) so got off the phone, I called Jenn and got a different reptile vet reference. I called and was able to take Chuffers in to see Dr. Kamaka immediately. I was very relieved to have everybody at that office treat me so well, get me in so fast and make me feel so much better about Chuffs survival rate.
I am still scared for my boy, I dont feel were out of the woods yet, but come what may, I have my beloved buddy back, he can at least spend some time in the safety and warmth of his big enclosure and hopefully make a full recovery in time for mating season in Feb/March.
I know of a very pretty, very large female Merauke Blue Tongue who might be interested in a rugged handsome survivor like Chuffers, once he comes out of brumation. After all, who wouldnt be? He is one Tuff Chuff.
I don't have pics of Chuffie yet, I am trying to keep stress and disruption to a minimum for him as he recovers.
But. . .
here's Nubbin!
Poor Nubbin's name-sake:
Marley!
_________________
1. Fiancee, Tony
1.0. Merauke, Chuff Chuff
0.0.2 Irian Jayas, Marley, Nubbin
2.0.1. White Lined Gecko, Crazy Horse, un-named male and juvie
5.4.4.3 Crested Geckos, Nib, Digger, Wall-e, Lemonade, Mr. Foot, Banana-Nog, Eve, Strawberry, red tiger, Pixel, Vindaloo, un-named, 3 eggs
0.0.1 Leachie, Francis
0.0.1 Gargoyle, Blackstone
0.1 Leopard Geckos, Zeek (M.I.A.)
2.1. African Fat Tails, Burger Butt, Badonkadonk, Galaxy Back to top
Slashingamer
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 13 Jul 2008
Posts: 373
Location: Cornelius, North CarolinaPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:04 pm Post subject: Hah, great story. I'm glad you found him.
_________________
If you believe in Jesus Christ and are 100% proud of it put this in your signature Back to top 
LittleFoot
Cognoscente
Joined: 22 May 2007
Posts: 1103
Location: Valley of the Sun, ArizonaPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:06 pm Post subject: woohoo....yeah for chuffie...i am sooooo glad that he is home. When he finally gets better and meets his two new brothers, he is going to have some stories to tell them. His story is truly amazing, I wish he could talk and tell you all about his crazy adventure. Nubbin is very cute and Marley is looking good. Thanks for posting Chuffie's story.
_________________
Pippi Back to top
Usersafe
Blue Devil Bluey
Joined: 20 Jun 2004
Posts: 1161
Location: Kansas CityPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:14 pm Post subject: I'm sure the ChuffMeister will be fine. That's quite the story of almost getting him back, losing him again and then finally getting him back for good. Silly landscaper tying him to the fence with a string. I'm so glad he's safe and sound.
Steve
_________________
0.1.0 Northern - Belle
0.0.1 Irian Jaya - Jerri
1.0.0 Northern - Bandit
0.1.0 Bearded Dragon Zoey Back to top
Fatal_S
Take Flight
Joined: 05 Dec 2005
Posts: 3436
Location: Manitoba, CanadaPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:32 pm Post subject: Oh wow. Just wow. That's an emotional rollercoaster, and I'm all the way in Canada. I was having the same visions you were, getting picked up by a bird or coyote. His survival is beyond lucky, congrats on your miracle bluey. I am soo glad you got big beautiful Chuff back. When you get Chuff babies, I claim one, kay?
What did the vet say about Chuffers? Why isn't he out of the woods? Are you sure it's safe to even try brumating him this year? He probably wont need it to be a stud muffin, and I've always heard you don't want to brumate unless the blueys are in top shape.
Now you have 3 amazing blueys. Nubbin is a very pretty IJ, lacking those toes won't slow him down. Also, you need to add your Leachie to your signature
_________________
*Fatal_Succubus*
1.0.3 Northern
0.1.2 Caramel Northern
0.0.1 Northern Mutt
0.0.3 Silver Tanimbar
0.0.2 Yellow Tanimbar
0.0.1 Tanimbar
0.0.1 Merauke
0.0.4 Irian Jaya
0.0.5 Crested Geckos
0.1.0 California Kingsnake
1.0.0 Dumeril Boa
0.1.0 Dog
0.2.0 Spiders Back to top 
frog_queen8
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 23 Jul 2008
Posts: 159
Location: texasPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 4:02 pm Post subject: WOW!! I can't even imagine what you must have been going through, and you handled it soo well...Maybe its a good thing he ran away for a while, because mow you have two new guys! Plus You got him back!!
What a story for sure!! Congrats and I'm soo gald he is safe and home with you Back to top
frog_queen8
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 23 Jul 2008
Posts: 159
Location: texasPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 4:02 pm Post subject: WOW!! I can't even imagine what you must have been going through, and you handled it soo well...Maybe its a good thing he ran away for a while, because now you have two new guys, Plus You got him back!!
What a story for sure!! Congrats and I'm soo glad he is safe and home with you Back to top
Katrina
Bluey Addict
Joined: 02 Dec 2007
Posts: 528
Location: Alberta, CanadaPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 4:24 pm Post subject: Wow - that is truly amazing!! I'm so happy for you, I can't believe he made it so long all alone!!
Like Fatal said, how is he not out of the woods yet?
I can't wait to see pics of him.
The other two are gorgeous, Nubbin is such a great name!
Back to top
ssr
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 03 Mar 2008
Posts: 470
Location: IowaPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 7:40 pm Post subject: Thanks for sharing the complete story. That would have been so difficult to have been told he was found only to lose him again.
Congrats for locating Chuffers and on aquiring Nubbins and Marley. Your family is growing!
_________________
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed.
Antoine de Saint Exupary Back to top
SailleSkinklover
Flame Faerie
Joined: 16 Jul 2007
Posts: 2041
Location: Everett WAPosted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 9:44 pm Post subject: Well, as in not being out of the woods yet, I won't feel better about him until he's eating properly and has a good shed. I want to give him at least a couple weeks before I feel safe about it all. I am still in shock, you see. I can't believe that he's still here, alive and sneezing and huffing and licking! He appears to be gaining strength though, and it is so nice to just cuddle him for a while every night when I get home from work!
_________________
1. Fiancee, Tony
1.0. Merauke, Chuff Chuff
0.0.2 Irian Jayas, Marley, Nubbin
2.0.1. White Lined Gecko, Crazy Horse, un-named male and juvie
5.4.4.3 Crested Geckos, Nib, Digger, Wall-e, Lemonade, Mr. Foot, Banana-Nog, Eve, Strawberry, red tiger, Pixel, Vindaloo, un-named, 3 eggs
0.0.1 Leachie, Francis
0.0.1 Gargoyle, Blackstone
0.1 Leopard Geckos, Zeek (M.I.A.)
2.1. African Fat Tails, Burger Butt, Badonkadonk, Galaxy
Page 1 of 1
Jump to: Select a forum Welcome to the BlueTongueSkinks.Net Web Community----------------General Discussion ForumBlue Tongued Skink ClassifiedsBlue Tongued Skink Photo AlbumBlueTongueSkinks.Net CaresheetEverything Off-Topic!Instructions, Guidelines, & Helpful HintsVisits since 2004Resolution Center All Reptile Classifieds----------------Reptile Classifieds You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum
Chuff's Story. the book.
Author Message SailleSkinklover
Flame Faerie
Joined: 16 Jul 2007
Posts: 2041
Location: Everett WA
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 2:29 pm Post subject: Chuff's Story. the book. The Great Escape! I have always enjoyed taking my Merauke Blue Tongue Skink, Chuff Chuff, outside because I am of the old school belief that fresh air and sunshine is good for not only the body but the soul as well.
Well, this past summer of 2008 became rather psycho-busy and it was sometimes left to Tony to take Chuff outside and let him play in his little outdoor pen, as I was not able to get home in time. This had occurred many times with no problems, until the fateful Friday of July 11th.
I was on my way to Federal Way to pick up a Crested Gecko and I was on the phone with Tony. He was looking out the window at Chuffie nosing at the pen, trying to figure his way out, and he commented on it.
Right then and there, I almost said, Ya know, Tone, just go out and bring him in, makes me nervous that hes so restless.
But I didnt. Big mistake. Tony and I hung up the phone, I navigated more traffic, and about 6 minutes later my phone rang again. It was Tony telling me, Chuff has got out!
What? Are you kidding me? Oh (insert expletive), Go Look!!!! I am on my way!
And of course, the Friday Night Traffic Gods were all against me. It took me over two hours to get home. On the way, just at the beginning of our little wooded country road, I saw the police lights behind me. I let loose a string of very choice words, and waited for what seemed like FOREVER for the cop to get to my window. He was a nice young fellow, ginger haired, and I practically threw my license at him. I garbled how I needed to get home right this second, my lizard had escaped his pen and I need to find him ASAP especially before dark and that if he needed to write me a ticket, he was gonna have to follow me home and give it to me there, or mail it to me or whatever, I needed to go, he could help look for Chuff Chuff but I had to go right NOW!!!!
Needless to say, he did let me go with no ticket (I probably scared him; I was the crazy lady babbling about an escaped lizard, after all!)!
After what had become a painfully long and evil commute, I hurtled down our small wooded road doing well above the speed limit of 35 MPH and finally screeched into the driveway. I leapt out, and found a much disheveled Tony in the back still looking feverishly everywhere.
We both circled outward from where Chuffie had last been seen but to no avail. Tony went in to get some food, hoping that would tempt him out.
Over the next few weeks, we tried many things. I made flyers and posted them all around town. I gave one to every neighbor within any sort of distance that I thought Chuff might be, up to about a half mile away in each possible direction. I called Animal Control and I called the shelters. I called the Carnation Police and explained it. I posted ads in the Pets and Lost and Found on Craigslist. I contacted the Pacific Northwest Herpetological Society to see if I could recruit people to come herping at the property. (I did end up joining them and becoming a member by the way!) I offered rewards. We put Chuffies enclosure out, hoping hed smell himself in his old territory and go in it. It was out there for about a month and a half. We tried all his fave foods, but the Stellars Jays got the turkey burger and Chicken, and the ants got the fruit. And during this whole situation, we still had to work and take care of the other animals.
I had horrible images of an eagle swooping down and carrying him off, I could see him in my minds eye, struggling in the talons, silhouetted against the sky. I had nightmares of him getting so cold he died, and me finding his skeleton in the spring.
The worst was the not knowing. But there was nothing we could do. I had many tearful long nights over that crazy Blue Tongue. I thought of all his little quirks, all the funny things he had done, like sleeping in the broom closet, trying to run on the kitchen floor, his little arms and legs pin-wheeling like mad while he didnt really move because he couldnt get a grip on the slick floor, him playing hide-an seek in the house and finally having to be coaxed out with hard boiled eggs and mango. It became harder and harder to go out to Carnation because I was reminded to painfully. Finally, in late August, the weather started turning more autumnal and we brought Chuffs enclosure back inside so the rain wouldnt destroy it.
I became more focused on my Crested Geckos, trying to ease the pain of losing Chuffers. Then one day I got the kindest private message I had ever seen. Jen (MartinsPerson) wrote to me to let me know how sad she felt for Chuffers and I and that she had one little baby Irian Jaya left if I wanted him.
I was very touched by the gesture, and thrilled too at the thought of another Bluey in the house. But I couldnt ever forget my Chuffalumps. He was my first, he had already been through so much and the thoughts and memories of him still hurt so badly. I wondered if I was ready for another Bluey.
Tony and I talked it over briefly but it didnt help me to make my mind up. To make matters worse, I went to a local pet store to pick up some lid clips for some gecko cages and I made the mistake of going in back to look at their reptiles. And they had a Bluey. Of course I asked to see it and it turned out it was a very sweet and rather chunky Irian Jaya. Sadly, the poor thing had absolutely no nails. Obviously there had been previous humidity issues that caused problems with the shedding and constriction had taken the first joints and nails off every finger and toe from this poor animal. However, the rest of it seemed to be in OK shape and temperamentally, it was a very sweet animal.
It was a hard decision to make, to walk away from that Bluey. Part of me wanted to rescue it because I am such a softie that way but I cant justify supporting a pet shop that might just get another mistreated animal in and sell it for a huge amount.
After trying for a couple of weeks to hook up with the shop owner to see if theyd comedown in price, I let it go. But I had made my mind up. I missed having a Bluey in the house.
September came, and Jen and I arranged to meet at the Hillsboro, OR Exotic Animal Expo where I would pick up Abu, the little baby IJ she had offered me. That day turned out to be a great day, I got up at the crack of dawn and a group of 6 of us from the Pacific NW Herp Society road tripped down in my friend Jenns van. At the show I picked up another red Crested Gecko and a little cute fat Pine Isle Rhacodactylus Leachieanus, (New Caledonian Giant Gecko) for a spectacular price as I had wanted one for a while. Best of all I got to meet Jen face to face and pick up little Abu. I also ran into Renee and Martin (DragonTears) from the Bluey forums. I could not get over how teeny Abu was! I just remembered Chuffs big old head and his big flappy blue tongue and to see it in miniature was really charming and ridiculously adorable.
I didnt get home until really late that night. (Well, technically it was the next day as I didnt get in the door until after Midnight!) There was a super worm incident that kept me up much later than I intended but that is another story for another time!
I got my little Bluey settled in and re-named him Marley. Marley is a really fast and really funny active little fellow. Hes a great eater; he even downs his collard greens which I find very pleasing as I know theyre good for him. About a week and a half after I got Marley Tony and I went back to the pet store where the big Bluey with stub toes had been as they were the only shop that carries the lid clips that I use for my gecko cages. Tony was the one who went straight back to see if the big Bluey was still there. Best of all, they had marked the price down by $50. I think it was part of his guilt of Chuff getting out on his watch that prompted him to buy that big stub toed Bluey for me. He liked it as well, having held it on one previous visit. I knew Tony was as heartbroken over Chuff as I was and we both agreed that we just couldnt leave that big Bluey at the store any longer, that if it hadnt been meant to be, it wouldnt have still been there. So we came out of the pet store with Nubbin. I had secretly already named that skink but I had no idea it would still be there a month or so later after the first time I had seen it!
October 11th, I was out in Carnation at Tonys place when I saw Patricia, (the landlady) with a man who looked suspiciously like a Landscaper. I had noticed a big truck in the driveway and I had a wild thought. Grabbing a flyer, I ran outside to talk to them. He was indeed a landscaper, and so I explained to him what had happened with Chuffers and that he was a burrowing lizard and they may find him if theyre digging things up.
If you do find him, put him in a box and call me right away, please!!! Bob, the Landscaper asked me if there was a reward. I replied, Definitely, for his safe and live return to me! I felt better for at least having explained that they may find Chuff, but I didnt get any hopes up and as the week went by I didnt think much more about it.
Thursday night about 7:40 PM, my cell phone rang. I answered it and it was a heavily accented mans voice on the other end. I couldnt understand what he was saying and to make things worse, it sounded like he had his hand over the mouthpiece which muffled his voice on top of trying to figure out what was being communicated through the language barrier. I told him that I thought he had a wrong number but he started saying No, No, and then he put his kid on the phone.
Hello? My dad found your creature, the kid said to me. My mind raced and I said, Creature, you mean lizard?
I think so. the kid answered.
Oh my Gods, how big was it? I asked, wanting to get a description just in case they may have found the wrong animal.
About uhhh, 18 inches, the boy replied. That sounded like Chuff, even though he is about 23 inches total. Close enough!
Where is he? What did you, I mean where,
Tied him with a string on the wire fence.
Huh? Which wire fence, the Llamas? I was so confused, because the property is large and the landlords own llamas that have a wire fence penning them in.
No, no, by the river?
I couldnt think of any wire fence by the river, so I was very confused. I told him that Id call him back and I called Tony immediately. The phone rang and rang and then the answering machine kicked on. Frantic, I hung up and called back because I knew Tony was there. He finally answered and I babbled to him the story. It was past dark out by then, so Tony grabbed the flashlight and went outside to look for Chuff and the string.
I called the people back to pinpoint a more exact area plus the time when they had found Chuff, and finally I understood that they meant the chain link fence that separates the property from the next door neighbors. I called Tony back to try and tell him. I had to call back three times before he was able to answer the phone because the reception is so bad out there. After I finally got Tony back on the phone, he found the string tied to the chain link fence, but no Chuffie. He had me call the people back to confirm whether it was a red string or not. And it was.
I couldnt believe that I had been so close but that Chuff had got away again. You cant tie a lizard to a fence like its a dog!!! Why hadnt they put him in a box like I had asked? I was so upset that he had been tied to a fence out in the open! What if a raccoon or owl came by? All these crazy scenarios played through my head but at least I knew that as of Thursday afternoon, at 4 PM, Chuff had been alive. I was a mess of emotions, both angry at the lack of communication and the re-escape, but super stoked that Chuff had somehow survived this long out in the wild!
I knew Id never forgive myself if I didnt get my butt out there and look for him. I had spent the night there on Wednesday night and seen a huge Coyote on my drive there. That Coyote had a very thick full coat so I knew that meant we are in for a rough and cold winter. I just had to find Chuff. I drove the hour drive from Everett to Carnation and as I got there, Josh, the landlord was there. I explained that Chuff may have been found but was loose again, could he help me look? Josh is a good guy and went in to grab a flashlight. I went inside to get one as well and Tony was talking to Joshs partner, Patricia, about how were going to heat the house for this upcoming winter. I burst in, grabbed the flashlight, and darted back outside to look for Chuffers. Josh helped me for about 15-20 minutes then he had to go in as he hadnt eaten all day. I looked for about an hour more in the cold damp tall wet grass. No Chuff. Heartbroken and frustrated beyond belief, I finally went inside.
After a tearful dinner, Tony and I dug out Chuffs travel box. At day break Friday morning, I saw the landscapers. I met Luis, the man who had found Chuffie, and I asked him to show me exactly where he had found Chuffers. He showed me, and I then explained, Today, if you see him again, catch him and put him in this box!
He bite? Luis asked me.
No, all you have to do is take a towel, throw it over him, scoop him up in the towel and put him in the box. Put something heavy on top so he cant get back out and call me!!
Luis nodded but I was apprehensive that he had really understood what I meant.
After another look around the yard in the area where Chuff had been found and re-escaped, I conceded that I had to go into work.
At lunch, I went back up to Everett and took care of the geckos who I had neglected the Thursday night in my frantic rush to go find Chuff. I had left all the lights on, the computer running and nobody had gotten fed. I took my whole lunch hour to get them all taken care of and went back to work to finish the huge shipment of binders that had to go out that day.
Thankfully, I got done early and left at about 2:40 to head back to Carnation to go look for Chuffie. It took me about an hour to get back to the house in Carnation. The first thing I did was go look in the yard for Chuff in the area he had been seen. It was futile. No Chuff. Then I noticed the box up on the porch. It looked like there was something on top of it? I ran up there and sure enough, Chuffs big brick basking rock was on top of the box and it was also taped shut.
I threw the stuff off and carefully opened the box. All I saw were the blue and green towels that had been in there. I carefully started to move the towels around and then I heard the most wonderful sound in the world at that moment, the low sighing huff that Chuff would make when I would go to wake him up for food. I folded the towel back and there he was, all filthy and with caked mud.
Oh Chuff! I whispered, carefully pulling him up out of the box. He was so cold and floppy feeling. I took a quick look and all limbs were there, though they appeared a little swollen. I had never been so happy to see Chuff gape at me. This was actually the only time he has looked me squarely in the face and opened his mouth. He gaped his huge maw at me I saw that beloved blue tongue. But it looked so pale, as did the rest of his mouth! I was terrified and elated at the same time.
I carefully hugged him to me so he could get warmth from my body heat and I brought everything inside. I first called Tony who was overjoyed at the great news. Then I immediately called my vet, who, it turned out, was out of town. I was put on with the other vet at tat office who I had had a previous bad experience with, (though I know shes good with birds) so got off the phone, I called Jenn and got a different reptile vet reference. I called and was able to take Chuffers in to see Dr. Kamaka immediately. I was very relieved to have everybody at that office treat me so well, get me in so fast and make me feel so much better about Chuffs survival rate.
I am still scared for my boy, I dont feel were out of the woods yet, but come what may, I have my beloved buddy back, he can at least spend some time in the safety and warmth of his big enclosure and hopefully make a full recovery in time for mating season in Feb/March.
I know of a very pretty, very large female Merauke Blue Tongue who might be interested in a rugged handsome survivor like Chuffers, once he comes out of brumation. After all, who wouldnt be? He is one Tuff Chuff.
I don't have pics of Chuffie yet, I am trying to keep stress and disruption to a minimum for him as he recovers.
But. . .
here's Nubbin!
Poor Nubbin's name-sake:
Marley!
_________________
1. Fiancee, Tony
1.0. Merauke, Chuff Chuff
0.0.2 Irian Jayas, Marley, Nubbin
2.0.1. White Lined Gecko, Crazy Horse, un-named male and juvie
5.4.4.3 Crested Geckos, Nib, Digger, Wall-e, Lemonade, Mr. Foot, Banana-Nog, Eve, Strawberry, red tiger, Pixel, Vindaloo, un-named, 3 eggs
0.0.1 Leachie, Francis
0.0.1 Gargoyle, Blackstone
0.1 Leopard Geckos, Zeek (M.I.A.)
2.1. African Fat Tails, Burger Butt, Badonkadonk, Galaxy Back to top
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 13 Jul 2008
Posts: 373
Location: Cornelius, North Carolina
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:04 pm Post subject: Hah, great story. I'm glad you found him._________________
If you believe in Jesus Christ and are 100% proud of it put this in your signature Back to top
Cognoscente
Joined: 22 May 2007
Posts: 1103
Location: Valley of the Sun, Arizona
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:06 pm Post subject: woohoo....yeah for chuffie...i am sooooo glad that he is home. When he finally gets better and meets his two new brothers, he is going to have some stories to tell them. His story is truly amazing, I wish he could talk and tell you all about his crazy adventure. Nubbin is very cute and Marley is looking good. Thanks for posting Chuffie's story._________________
Pippi Back to top
Blue Devil Bluey
Joined: 20 Jun 2004
Posts: 1161
Location: Kansas City
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:14 pm Post subject: I'm sure the ChuffMeister will be fine. That's quite the story of almost getting him back, losing him again and then finally getting him back for good. Silly landscaper tying him to the fence with a string. I'm so glad he's safe and sound. Steve
_________________
0.1.0 Northern - Belle
0.0.1 Irian Jaya - Jerri
1.0.0 Northern - Bandit
0.1.0 Bearded Dragon Zoey Back to top
Take Flight
Joined: 05 Dec 2005
Posts: 3436
Location: Manitoba, Canada
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:32 pm Post subject: Oh wow. Just wow. That's an emotional rollercoaster, and I'm all the way in Canada. I was having the same visions you were, getting picked up by a bird or coyote. His survival is beyond lucky, congrats on your miracle bluey. I am soo glad you got big beautiful Chuff back. When you get Chuff babies, I claim one, kay? What did the vet say about Chuffers? Why isn't he out of the woods? Are you sure it's safe to even try brumating him this year? He probably wont need it to be a stud muffin, and I've always heard you don't want to brumate unless the blueys are in top shape.
Now you have 3 amazing blueys. Nubbin is a very pretty IJ, lacking those toes won't slow him down. Also, you need to add your Leachie to your signature
_________________
*Fatal_Succubus*
1.0.3 Northern
0.1.2 Caramel Northern
0.0.1 Northern Mutt
0.0.3 Silver Tanimbar
0.0.2 Yellow Tanimbar
0.0.1 Tanimbar
0.0.1 Merauke
0.0.4 Irian Jaya
0.0.5 Crested Geckos
0.1.0 California Kingsnake
1.0.0 Dumeril Boa
0.1.0 Dog
0.2.0 Spiders Back to top
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 23 Jul 2008
Posts: 159
Location: texas
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 4:02 pm Post subject: WOW!! I can't even imagine what you must have been going through, and you handled it soo well...Maybe its a good thing he ran away for a while, because mow you have two new guys! Plus You got him back!! What a story for sure!! Congrats and I'm soo gald he is safe and home with you Back to top
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 23 Jul 2008
Posts: 159
Location: texas
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 4:02 pm Post subject: WOW!! I can't even imagine what you must have been going through, and you handled it soo well...Maybe its a good thing he ran away for a while, because now you have two new guys, Plus You got him back!! What a story for sure!! Congrats and I'm soo glad he is safe and home with you Back to top
Bluey Addict
Joined: 02 Dec 2007
Posts: 528
Location: Alberta, Canada
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 4:24 pm Post subject: Wow - that is truly amazing!! I'm so happy for you, I can't believe he made it so long all alone!! Like Fatal said, how is he not out of the woods yet?
I can't wait to see pics of him.
The other two are gorgeous, Nubbin is such a great name!
Bluey Beginner
Joined: 03 Mar 2008
Posts: 470
Location: Iowa
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 7:40 pm Post subject: Thanks for sharing the complete story. That would have been so difficult to have been told he was found only to lose him again. Congrats for locating Chuffers and on aquiring Nubbins and Marley. Your family is growing!
_________________
You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed.
Antoine de Saint Exupary Back to top
Flame Faerie
Joined: 16 Jul 2007
Posts: 2041
Location: Everett WA
Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 9:44 pm Post subject: Well, as in not being out of the woods yet, I won't feel better about him until he's eating properly and has a good shed. I want to give him at least a couple weeks before I feel safe about it all. I am still in shock, you see. I can't believe that he's still here, alive and sneezing and huffing and licking! He appears to be gaining strength though, and it is so nice to just cuddle him for a while every night when I get home from work!
_________________
1. Fiancee, Tony
1.0. Merauke, Chuff Chuff
0.0.2 Irian Jayas, Marley, Nubbin
2.0.1. White Lined Gecko, Crazy Horse, un-named male and juvie
5.4.4.3 Crested Geckos, Nib, Digger, Wall-e, Lemonade, Mr. Foot, Banana-Nog, Eve, Strawberry, red tiger, Pixel, Vindaloo, un-named, 3 eggs
0.0.1 Leachie, Francis
0.0.1 Gargoyle, Blackstone
0.1 Leopard Geckos, Zeek (M.I.A.)
2.1. African Fat Tails, Burger Butt, Badonkadonk, Galaxy
Page 1 of 1
Jump to: Select a forum Welcome to the BlueTongueSkinks.Net Web Community----------------General Discussion ForumBlue Tongued Skink ClassifiedsBlue Tongued Skink Photo AlbumBlueTongueSkinks.Net CaresheetEverything Off-Topic!Instructions, Guidelines, & Helpful HintsVisits since 2004Resolution Center All Reptile Classifieds----------------Reptile Classifieds You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum
