Meet Vanessa.
She is six years old and until last week never had a home. She didn't even have a name until the rescue league saved her from the puppy mill. Vanessa was a breeder dog, kept alive solely for her puppies.
She is six years old and until last week never had a home. She didn't even have a name until the rescue league saved her from the puppy mill. Vanessa was a breeder dog, kept alive solely for her puppies.
In six years she wasn't praised, or petted, or taken for a walk. No one ever spoke kindly to her or played with her. She "lived" in a wire rabbit hutch with 12 other dogs; never experiencing the feel of grass under her paws, the warmth of sun on her face, the breeze blowing on her fur. She had to fight for her food and there was never enough. The only medical attention she received were the many C-sections that took away her pups. She was never groomed; her eyes developed a chronic condition that was never treated and most likely took most of her sight; her limbs grew weak from never stretching and moving. Vanessa didn't know that humans could be caring or kind.
But last week my Mom and Dad brought Vanessa home to live with them, and for the first time in her life she was held, and petted, and cared for. Finally, she got the medicine she needs to help her eyes. Her coat was groomed and the flea bites given a chance to heal. She has her own crate with a warm and cozy blanket and her own special spot on the sofa. She walked on the grass, she sniffed the air, she sat in the sun. My Aunt Cathy brought her toys for when she is ready to play, and she now has more than enough to eat.
Vanessa is still scared and tentative - loud noises and sudden movements make her jump. But she is slowly realizing that now she is safe and that she is treasured and that life can be good. And soon she will be truly happy for the first time in her life because now she has a home, and the love of many caring and kind people.
If you are considering adding a pet to your household I urge you to visit your local animal shelter or contact a rescue league, or visit a PetSmart that hosts adoption clinics. Maybe even take in a stray. And please try never to buy a puppy or kitten from a pet store or a breeder/person you do not know - when you do you are most likely supporting the cruelty that is puppy mills.
I promise that you'll feel really good about saving a life, and you will be rewarded with a loyal companion, unconditional love and the joy of an animal thankful everyday for your efforts.
1 comment:
Jodi, as usual your words are eloquent, and , of course, I agree with your sentiments. Nessa is doing okay, but there is no light in her eyes, no joy! I hope we are able to change that and give her some much deserved happiness as the days wear on. Thanks for the picture of her. She certainly does look like old Ruffin, doesn't she? Love ya, MOM
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