Remembering two cherished Vicktory dogs

We say goodbye to Meryl and Cherry.

Meryl was the Vicktory dog with the amazing red freckles and awesome underbite, and she was one special dog. During the years she spent at the Sanctuary, she was a true friend to many other dogs and to even more people. After a decade of living her best life, this one-of-a-kind dog crossed the Rainbow Bridge early this year. She had been declining for some months, and despite efforts to keep her comfortable, her age and medical challenges took over. So veterinary staff and Meryl’s caregivers came together to let her go, peacefully, surrounded by those she loved.

Why was Meryl so special? It’s difficult to choose just one reason. She mattered as an individual, just as much as any other dog in need. She mattered because of what happened to her and who she was. And she mattered because of the way her legacy changed the fate of thousands of other dogs like her.

In the early days, as with the other Vicktory dogs, Meryl needed time to learn to trust. While she and the other dogs were being