This old dog still learns new tricks, and is a treat to her master

ST. CLOUD — As a puppy, Kiesu was wise beyond her years. The same can still be said at age 17, the number of years the Siberian husky has been St. Cloud resident Paula Fuchs Litterst’s trusty companion. Their symbiotic relationship has seen them nurture each other when they needed it most. “For a long time, Kiesu helped me; then, as we aged together, I’m here to help her," Fuchs Litterst said. "She used to be my eyes, and now I’m her eyes.” Kiesu turns 17½, equal to more than 100 human years, on Saturday, Nov. 14. Two days later, Paula will turn 40. “It’s very remarkable to see 17½," said Kiesu’s former veterinarian, Dr. Sarah Hegman of Mille Lacs Veterinary Group. "It doesn’t matter the breed. We don’t see a lot of that in clinical practice. Maybe with some smaller breeds, but I would say as far as huskies or Siberian huskies go, 12 to 14 is kind of average.” Kiesu’s current vet, Dr. Kaitlyn Howard of Rice Veterinary Clinic, also said she’s never seen such an old husky.

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