Soft puppy kisses on chin
Perfect afternoon
Nala never got the chance to be a puppy. Her last moments were spent alone in a concrete and metal walled cage. It’s anyone’s guess where Nala was before she arrived at the shelter. Maybe at one point in time she had a person who cared about her and a place to call home or, maybe, she was “just an animal” who was a apart someone’s home decor. All we know is that she was put out on the streets at 11 months old and left to fend for herself.
When I first met Nala, she hadn’t been out of her kennel in four days. She was in heat and wasn’t allowed to go on any walks. When I went to read her walk card, she stared up at me with longing eyes, her head cocked to the side. How could I say no to a face like that? I
spent 10 minutes or so getting to know her in her kennel before I took her out, because the comments from other volunteers said she was a bit hand shy (and, boy,were they right!). For the first minute or so, she ducked her head every time I attempted to pet her, but her avoidance lessened as time ticked by. Eventually, I got her leashed up and brought her to the play area under the overpass.Over the course of a month, I really got to know her. I took her out every time I went to the shelter, always remembering to stop and rest on the bench by the estuary for a quick cuddle. I gave her fluffy blankets whenever I got the chance and extra food to fill her skinny frame. I wanted so badly for her to do well in an environment that I knew broke down so many animals.
A few weeks later, we found out Nala had ringworm, but I didn’t care. When I could, I walked her, and when I couldn’t, I spent time with her in her kennel. Sadly, it wasn’t enough. Nala’s physical and mental health quickly deteriorated and she was put to rest on January 11, 2010.
I always wonder if things would have been different if I had done more for her: taken her out more, sat with her longer. Having these regrets - knowing that maybe I could have done something to save her - is eating away at me.
I will always remember her and her lively spirit, her sweet kisses, and her silly little stare.Hopefully, she is looking down on us from Doggie Heaven, a place happier than this world could ever be.
"And let's not forget Miss Violet, who is coming along beautifully after arriving (and remaining) in a terrified state, preferring to remain in the corner of her kennel for weeks, rather than engaging with volunteers who were eager to help her feel more comfortable. Yay-- it is finally happening!"
I was drawn to Teddy since day one. His piercing yellow eyes (a telling sign of his burning energy and enthusiasm) and happy character are too much to resist. This dog shows you how to have a good time, how to get out on a walk and just let loose. He’s not afraid of jumping in puddles, or of running free and wild through a grassy field. He helps you to forget all worries and to just be in the moment. Walking him after a stressful day at school, I imagine he would say to me “Just enjoy the view, each other’s company, and have fun for goodness sake.”
I have to admit, Teddy’s tongue is really fun to be licked with. He sends you into a laughing fit as he manages to lick every square inch of your face. I think he enjoys this “torture” too. If he’s not licking you, he’s trying to crawl into your lap, despite his big-boy size, which he sometimes fails to acknowledge.
You will never catch this dog without a smile on his face. Teddy teaches a valuable lesson of how to enjoy life and how to pull yourself out of a funk and enjoy the day. Teddy makes the most of his situation and does not fail to recognize and appreciate the loving workers and volunteers around him. To show his appreciation, Teddy often presses against my legs, nuzzles me with his head, and as we walk he looks up at me as if to ask “Are you having a good time too?” He is very considerate and aware of his walker.
I look forward every day to Teddy’s characteristic waddle, an endearing little strut that reveals his excitement and enthusiasm, and I wonder what adventure he’ll show me next. He is a true treasure; there is so much spunk and love packed into this doggy.
Submitted with love by BACS Volunteer Courtney S.
My friend, Kangs took this dear girl, who looked as though she could barely walk, for a run. It was Lady’s idea. This girl who looked as though she couldn’t stand for longer than a few moments took me all the way around Aquatic Park. Three miles.
I gave her premium wet food. I bathed her to get rid of the remnants of the past that remained on her fur. I tucked her in with blankets fresh from the dryer to warm her worn body. I lay on her Kuranda with her, spoon fashion. I told her I loved her. She, who most likely never had the opportunity or inclination to bestow a kiss upon a human, gave me a kiss.
Thank you, my Lady. Thank you for reaching deep into my heart and making me feel what it is to love a dog so completely, even one who I’ve only just met; to love a dog who touches something in you so deeply that the connection is unquestionable, visceral, permanent. Permanent, though the body leaves this earth and I can no longer hold you and show you what tenderness is, something that should have infused your entire lifespan, not just the last week of it.
Rest in Peace my dear Lady. I will never forget you.