On our early morning walk one weekend, Rambo and I happened across a strange sight - a tiny kitten trotting along behind a Labrador and his walker - in a high traffic street. I immediately reigned in my 70 pound lab who had never before encountered a live cat. The kitten was undaunted and simply arched her back and proceeded on tip toes to increase her size. Rambo was smitten by this < 1 lb creature with 100 lbs of guts. Knowing that the area, apart from the traffic, has a number of stray dogs, I could do naught but oblige Rambo and bring Kitty home.
She immediately settled in with Rambo (himself rescued at a near-death state) and Zuma (a recently adopted stray puppy who was suffering from Rickets and Distemper) on my terrace. Kitty initially missed her mommy and Zuma had to grow up quickly to play mom. Now Rambo shares suckling duties. I love going upstairs and watching the three at their antics. It is heartwarming to see that Rambo allows the much smaller Zuma to play rough with him and, similarly, Kitty is quite wicked when playing with Zuma. The stronger often takes a beating at play but does not hurt the weaker!
And Kitty is of the view that dogs aren’t exactly hot on personal hygiene and works hard and grooming them, whether they like it or not. Here is Kitty, contemplating the cleanliness of Rambo's belly.
Preeti
Delhi, India
********************************************************************************
From puppy mill dog to beloved family member, heartwarming only begins to describe Honey’s story. In the process of finding a better life, she also has warmed the hearts of those she has met.
Four months after she was rescued by Wisconsin Adopt A Golden Retriever, Inc. (Brookfield, Wis.) and learned the many lessons on how to be a dog, she came to our home for foster care at the age of seven and never left. Shy and quiet when we first got her, she found her bark and a spring in her step with the help of our other Golden Retriever, Sulley. Trips to the cottage are her favorite, as are treats and squeaky toys. She never begs for food, but knows to wait by her bowl when pancakes or waffles are made (smart girl).
Knowing Honey’s background, every day she teaches lessons about loving life. At almost 14, she rules our home, and has stolen the hearts of members of my family. And she has given back to the rescue that did so much for her, appearing on TV, at events, and in publicity to represent WAAGR.
If you come to my house, you will most likely find her sleeping and possibly dreaming of her next pancake, a far cry from where her life began. We can’t imagine our lives without her.
Amy Behrendt
Menasha, WI
