Loss

Last night I received some terrible news: an agility friend had suddenly lost one of her dogs this week after a very brief illness.

I know everyone loves their pets, and grieves at their loss, but this dog was truly special. She was one of a litter of feral puppies taken in by my friend's aunt (who runs a rescue). She was initially unable to co-exist with humans. She and her littermates found people terrifying.

My friend took in this dog knowing full well that she could not be treated like 'just a pet'. She spent the dog's entire life working on things we take for granted; That being indoors was safe, that humans weren't scary, that loud noises are generally nothing to worry about, and much more. The dog had been taken to behaviorists who specialize in fear, was on medication, and received uncountable hours of training.

In the year(ish) that I've known this girl and her dog, even I could see the massive improvements. The dog was able to remain calm in an agility class when trains went past the building. She gained the confidence to take the dog walk. She even learned to greet other people. I am proud and honored to say that she came to trust me enough to take treats and allowed me to rub her ears and nose.

She was a dog that had many problems. But more importantly, she had a loving owner who was devoted to her. From terrified feral puppy, her life was incredibly enhanced and enriched by her wonderful owner. Friend and dog were the definition of successful animal adoption.

My heart, as well as those of my trainers and fellow students, goes out to her.

If any of you who know my friend wish to contact her directly, but don't know how, please email me privately.