Ranger

The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association's next award recipient is Ranger, owned by Julie and David Lane of So. Hero, VT. She is a Border Collie and lives on Crescent Bay Farm with her family. Ranger was nominated by VVMA member veterinarian Dr. Millie Armstrong.

On March 26, 2001 Ranger became a Hero! After a long day of boiling sap into Maple Syrup, everyone retired to bed about 10:00 PM. At 11:30, Ranger woke David and Julie by growling. Disregarding commands to be quiet and go back to sleep, Ranger persisted in growling and pacing the room. Finally, David responded by sitting up in bed and saw flames springing from the back of the barn which was very close to the house.

Quickly the family was gathered, avoiding the exploding transformer, and hustled into the car where they called 911 on the car phone. The 24 beef cattle were saved by David just prior to the barn becoming engulfed in flames. The llamas and horses escaped and were fine. Unfortunately the chickens, 3 barns and some antique farming equipment were lost in the fire. Ranger stayed with the children watching over them and calming their emotions throughout the whole ordeal. Due to a West wind and the quick actions of all the Champlain Island fire departments, the main house and sugar house were saved.

Throughout the rest of 2001, Ranger continued to support the family and give comfort. Soon a new barn will stand on the greater than 100 year old farmstead as the Lane family plans a community barn raising. We are sure that Ranger will be there, frolicking with the neighbors and enjoying the attention of everyone present.

The VVMA is proud to acknowledge Ranger as a Hero in the Vermont Animal Hall of Fame.