I have never read a more inspiring yet tragic story of just how uncompassionate humans can be towards the most wonderful of creatures on this planet. Over the next several days I will dedicate posts to a courageous little spirit named Lily and the gentleman who made Lily's final days joyful and full of love and devotion. I'll begin with "Lily's Story" as written by Lily's "dad" Rich Strader.Lily's story
Lily was born, raised and perhaps had 13 litters of puppies at the Reedgate Kennels before we were able to buy her at auction. Her time there was spent in a wire cage with a board to sleep on and a rabbit waterer to drink from. While in the mill she received little or no vet care and because of this she lost all her teeth and her lower jaw rotted off, which is not unusual for the smaller breeds in the puppy mills. Everything that was precious to her was taken away (her puppies). The human hand brought only misery.
When she came to me I took her to work everyday and she slept in the warmth of my Irish Wolfhounds stomach.
She slowly learned to trust and in 7 months she would come to me to get on my lap! She now loves all humans as no one will ever hurt her again.
Lily is my inspiration. She can teach anyone about love, courage and the ability to forgive. Unfortunately the cancer she aquired through years of neglect is now close to ending her life. I have promised her she will never be alone again and I will be with her at the end. To date she is responsible for saving over 1,100 dogs as she is the inspiration and founder of National Mill Dog Rescue. Lily died in my arms May 13, 2008. She will be missed.
by - Rich Strader
Lily is the love and the light of my life. If you've ever had a special dog like Lily, then you will understand right away what I'm talking about. If you haven't... read on.
Lily was born, raised and perhaps had 13 litters of puppies at the Reedgate Kennels before we were able to buy her at auction. Her time there was spent in a wire cage with a board to sleep on and a rabbit waterer to drink from. While in the mill she received little or no vet care and because of this she lost all her teeth and her lower jaw rotted off, which is not unusual for the smaller breeds in the puppy mills. Everything that was precious to her was taken away (her puppies). The human hand brought only misery.
When she came to me I took her to work everyday and she slept in the warmth of my Irish Wolfhounds stomach.
She slowly learned to trust and in 7 months she would come to me to get on my lap! She now loves all humans as no one will ever hurt her again. Lily is my inspiration. She can teach anyone about love, courage and the ability to forgive. Unfortunately the cancer she aquired through years of neglect is now close to ending her life. I have promised her she will never be alone again and I will be with her at the end. To date she is responsible for saving over 1,100 dogs as she is the inspiration and founder of National Mill Dog Rescue. Lily died in my arms May 13, 2008. She will be missed.
Oh, Dear God, please protect all the Lilys of this world and help them find peace and love. I'm not sure what kind of world could allow so much abuse to rain down on those who cannot defend themselves and who only want to give love.
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