We work on the emotional and mental damage. We teach the fosters that hands don't hurt, that dogs are not allowed to fight, that there will always be good food, fresh water, special treats, and lots of patience. We show them there are good and kind people and that love is unconditional. We give them time to understand they are safe and when we think they are ready, we start looking for their forever home.
Rescue is hard. It hurts to let a dog go to a forever home. Some are easier to let go than others. I once had a puppy who was so full of energy that I celebrated when his adopters picked him up. They enjoyed the running, playing and silly antics of a youngster - he drained me beyond words. I've delivered dogs to adopters who cried for joy when they met their new dog in person - much easier to let go when you know how loved they will be. Only twice have I adopted out dogs that I really did not want to let go.
The first was a tiny Yorkie named Chewy. The adopters actually came to look at another dog but Chewy immediately fell head over heels in love with one of them. He jumped in Bruce's lap, he cuddled, he performed a number of adorable antics, he charmed everyone and surprised the daylights out of me. Chewy's message was clear - "I'm your dog. Take me home." I took him with me on the home visit and he acted as though he had been there his entire life. They had a wonderful yellow lab named Buddy who also fell under Chewy's spell. Chewy was right, this was his home. I was happy for Chewy and his two dads but sad for me, I loved that little guy but I knew this was the best home for him. Rescue is hard but it's not about us, it's about the dogs. I let Chewy go because he had found his dads - what else could I do? He was home.
And then there was Duke. He came with Lexi and darn if they weren't two precious, tiny little Yorkies. Prior to coming here, Duke had a fight with a labrador and his left eye had popped out. There was no sight in that eye but there was a lot of pain so it had to be removed. Our vet prescribed strong pain meds but sometimes the pain broke through during the first few days. I would give him more pain meds and quietly talk with him until the medication kicked in. I confess, Duke stole my heart. He had such courage and such a bold, loving spirit. When we were told a potential adopter wanted both Duke & Lexi we were happy they could stay together but I really did not want to let him go. Still, this is what we do so we put Duke and Lexi on a transport with another foster mom who escorted him to his new home.
Duke and Lexi had a rocky start at their new home but everyone adjusted and they settled right in. I learned the other day that a few months ago Duke got away from his owner and he "went after" a much larger dog. The larger dog killed him. What can I say? Reading that took my breath away. I'm angry that he was killed by a larger dog. I'm angry that I found out only because I sent a note asking how he was. I'm so angry that I let him go to this couple and yet. . . . I know that is not fair. I know they loved him and I know they were saddened by his death. I feel sadness for this couple who opened their home and heart to Duke and Lexi. I feel sorry for Lexi who has always had Duke as a buddy. And I am sorry Duke is gone.
His bright light and courageous heart was extinguished much too soon. The hardest part of rescue is saying Goodbye.
Duke before his eye surgery.
Good bye sweet boy. God Speed.
