Thank you from a rescued dog
“Thank you for adopting me. I have been waiting for a family just like yours for a long time. I do not understand why my previous home no longer wanted me. I loved them very much and I never did anything bad so it is confusing for me to understand why I found myself homeless.
“My journey to your home was a long one but I certainly met many kind people along the way. A loving foster family took me in and kept me safe until you adopted me. Without shelters and foster families, dogs like me would not get a second chance at love. My foster family helped me settle into their home and they took me to the vet. My foster family wanted to make sure I was healthy and to check if I needed any medical attention. My foster family stayed with me during the appointment to make sure I was comfortable and not too nervous.
“My foster family was very patient and gentle. They took their time to get to know many of my traits such as; my true personality, my likes or dislikes, what kind of food was most nutritious (and tasty) for me and they kept me on a regular routine. They walked me a few times each day and they played ball with me as many time as I wanted. They also let me cuddle with them on the couch. They treated me as if I was part of their family, but I knew I was temporary.
“Each dog’s journey to rescue is distinctive. We arrive from many different situations. Some dogs are like me come a previous family. Some dogs are picked up by animal control and believe it or not, no one comes to claim them. Because the lost dog did not have an ID tag or microchip, there was no way animal control could contact the owner. Sadly, these dogs end up in rescue but kind volunteers help them move forward and find them new homes.
“Some dogs may lose their owner to death or illness. If arrangements were not made before the owner passed away, the dog will likely join rescue if another family member cannot take the dog home. A devoted dog owner may become gravely ill and can no longer care for their beloved dog. The owner may contact a rescue to have them help find the dog a new forever home.
“No matter where a rescue dogs comes from we all appreciate the volunteers that help us along the way. Volunteers help us when we are confused or nervous, they prepare paperwork, take us to veterinarian appointments, give us beds and especially the volunteers who simply and calmly sit with us when we feel unloved. Volunteers are the backbone of every rescue and shelter.
“But at last, my journey through rescue has ended. You saved my life by adopting me and I will remain your faithful companion. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Please be kind to animals.
Tracy Jessiman writes the weekly column Recycled Love and is proud to be a “voice for those with no choice.” Reach her at recycledlove@me.com