Hi Cindi ...
I think the truly best answer is, "Only the gopher knows."
I, too, have tried to dig out a well established climber. Before I finished, I was wondering whatever made me think I could possibly get that thing out and calling myself all kinds of totally stupid. I'm allowed to call myself those kinds of things, but normally, I would never admit it to anyone ...
I think most budded roses attacked by the gophers are younger plants with far more tender roots in comparison to an established climber. If the budded rose does make it more tasty that may be what draws the gophers initially. In my experience, animals that I know more about are quite opportunistic. They are going to go after food that is easier to get first. Of course, I don't speak "gopher", so I really don't know.
Thanks for the hug, Cindi. At least I didn't wake up hurting this morning and ready to get back to work.
Smiles,
Lyn
