This page is devoted to memories of Shelties (and their furry friends) who are no longer with us. Send your tribute to shepherd@nvsr.org.
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Lily
Lily came to NVSR in late 2021 from an abusive, neglectful owner in West Virginia. She was very dirty and very shy. Soon after I got her as a foster, I realized that she was also deaf. Since her rescue happened fairly quickly, NVSR asked me to have my vet do her dental work, within days of her arrival. Upon picking her up from that procedure late that evening, the vet tech brought her out, looking worried. Lily was lying completely limp in her arms. I was advised that because her vitals checked out as normal, she was released to me with the proviso that if she did not perk up within the hour, to take her to the emergency vet. So we placed her in the crate and off I went to home. When I pulled into the driveway and lifted the car hatch, there was Lily, standing up in the crate, as if to say, "I'm home!" That was it for me - I became another foster failure. Ever since that day, Lily was my little shadow. Always quiet and shy, she never was overly enthusiastic about anything except mealtime. Then, she actually did her version of her little happy dance with a bit of a tail wag, too. Needless to say, I fell in love with Lily from the very first. It made me joyful to see her lying on her back on the sofa with paws up, looking blissful. She also enjoyed being picked up, placed on her back, getting her tummy rubbed while in my reading chair. She also liked going strolling in her carriage on the local trail and became a favorite of her many doggie and human friends. |
At the end, Lily was not fearful. I think she knew it was time. I held her head in my hands as she drifted away, and I knew she was at peace. It was her last gift to me. Rest well, little angel. Always in my heart. -- Sandy Kemp
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Duke
Duke was with us for only a short time. He passed away suddenly in August 2022 from multiple organ failure. NVSR said he must have been more ill than anyone realized when he first came into care. His passing was devastating because he was the sweetest, most gentle boy and did not seem sick except for the occasional tender tummy. He was so happy to get any attention and had the endearing habit of placing his paw on me to keep being petted. He soon began following me everywhere and would even politely wait for me before he went outside or came back in. He loved being outside in the yard and on the deck. When I said, "Do you want to go outside?", he would do his happy dance. He loved to cuddle, once he got used to being picked up. He was afraid of thunder, but snuggle time on the sofa would quickly calm him down and he would stop trembling. It touched my heart that he felt safe with me. Every night when I was on the computer, he would lie in the dog bed on the floor behind me. It was a comfort to know he was there, safe and warm. Although our time together was brief, we made a connection, and I like to think that he went to the great beyond knowing that he was loved. Fly free, sweet boy. You are sorely missed. - Sandy Kemp |
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Mick
My wonderful Mick passed away January 2022 at age 15. He was part of our family for a year and a half, coming to us at age 13 from another foster home. His foster mom told me she felt very protective of him as he had come into NVSR's care in horrible condition after prolonged neglect and not expected to live very long after rescue. With her good care and attention he not only made it back to health but thrived in his last years because of his strong will to live. He had severe arthritis and it was only when his body became too weak that he gave in. It was my privilege to come to know and care for this very sweet and loving dog. He never turned a wrong paw and was grateful for everything that came his way. He was very popular at the local walk trail, riding in his blue buggy, and made lots of friends there. He is very much missed by them, his vet and especially me. Although his original name was Mickey, I changed it to Mick (for my favorite Rolling Stone, Mick Jagger) because of his longevity and resilience. It seemed to fit him and loved him so dearly. He truly was a wonder dog. Rest well, little friend. - Sandy Kemp |
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Louie
Louie was one of those "extra-special" rescued Shelties that NVSR was privileged to find that special home for. Although he suffered from DM (dermatomyositis), he had a wonderful temperament and attitude toward life. We loved him dearly and miss him very much. We wrote a long article about him. Read it here. Accompanying that are pages of photos of Louie doing all the things he loved so much. See the rest of his photo story here: page 2 -- page 3 -- page 4 -- page 5. - Evelyn and Greg Manteris |
Gilby (2005-2022)
I always associate the color orange with our dog Gilby. He was originally from Orange County, Virginia, and his favorite neckerchief was an orange bandanna. Right after he passed away, all the orange lilies in our yard began to bloom as if our gentle boy's spirit was still with us.
We know very little about Gilby's first 7 years as a stud dog at a breeding operation shut down by the court. He was taken into the care of the good people of NVSR from whom we adopted him 10 years ago. (Many thanks to Tuck Rogers for being such a good foster mom to him. Gilby and Tuck exchanged Christmas cards every year.)
But this we do know ...
He loved sunshine and hated the rain.
He loved snow and preferred to lie low during the heat of Virginia summers.
He was shy and reserved with a sweet nature and gentle disposition.
He loved bones, chewing on sticks, shredding paper, and having his spine scratched in just the right spot.
He was a Virginia Gentleman who always rose when I entered the room and insisted I go ahead of him through doors and down stairs.
He belched loudly to show his appreciation for his meals.
He was shy around strangers yet made friends easily.
He wore a path along our backyard fence from running and barking at passers-by.
He was a devoted companion to canine siblings Maddie and Gracie.
He loved us unconditionally and vice versa.
He left a void in our family that won't be easily filled.
Godspeed, Big G. I hope the orange lilies are blooming where you are. - Nancy & David Almasi
I always associate the color orange with our dog Gilby. He was originally from Orange County, Virginia, and his favorite neckerchief was an orange bandanna. Right after he passed away, all the orange lilies in our yard began to bloom as if our gentle boy's spirit was still with us.
We know very little about Gilby's first 7 years as a stud dog at a breeding operation shut down by the court. He was taken into the care of the good people of NVSR from whom we adopted him 10 years ago. (Many thanks to Tuck Rogers for being such a good foster mom to him. Gilby and Tuck exchanged Christmas cards every year.)
But this we do know ...
He loved sunshine and hated the rain.
He loved snow and preferred to lie low during the heat of Virginia summers.
He was shy and reserved with a sweet nature and gentle disposition.
He loved bones, chewing on sticks, shredding paper, and having his spine scratched in just the right spot.
He was a Virginia Gentleman who always rose when I entered the room and insisted I go ahead of him through doors and down stairs.
He belched loudly to show his appreciation for his meals.
He was shy around strangers yet made friends easily.
He wore a path along our backyard fence from running and barking at passers-by.
He was a devoted companion to canine siblings Maddie and Gracie.
He loved us unconditionally and vice versa.
He left a void in our family that won't be easily filled.
Godspeed, Big G. I hope the orange lilies are blooming where you are. - Nancy & David Almasi
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Sadie
Sadie (a/k/a "The Fluff") had more of a role in my life than just a companion ... she was a social media "presence" to my friends and family. Here is a story about some of the many conversations I had with her. Miss her every day! - Laura Biesiadecki |
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Blaze
Our family adopted Blaze on December 22, 2014. We had six wonderful years with him. Looking back, I remember the first time Blaze visited our home, he walked right in and jumped up on our couch, as if to say he was home, and he was ... We knew from the very beginning that he was a truly special little guy and how very fortunate we were to have him as a part of our lives. Blaze had the most loving heart and brought us so much joy and happiness. We would always say, he’s not like a dog at all, instead we felt like he was our angel. Our hearts are broken without him. Thank you for entrusting us with such a beautiful soul. -- The Flynn Family, February 2021 |
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Millie On December 7, 2020, we euthanized our beloved Sheltie, Millie (nee Sophie), who had cancer. She was only 9.5 years old, and we had her for only a year a half. Nevertheless, she was dearly loved by our family for her unique character. We nicknamed her "Sweet Pea" (she weighed only 18 pounds) and "Angel from Heaven," because she was such a sweet girl. Above all else, Millie loved to eat and to take walks with the family and our other Sheltie, Trevor. She also loved to chase squirrels, but never caught one. -- Lisa and Jared Jobe Here's a card that NVSR received with wonderful artwork of Millie. |
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Skip Skip was a youngster when he was found stuck in a briar patch in Shenandoah National Park, obviously lost. No one came looking for him at the shelter, so he came into NVSR’s hands and I adopted him soon after, with his scratched up face and a ton of energy. Right from the start, I knew he was a terrific dog and for the next 13 years that I was fortunate to share his life, he brought fun and adventure to our home. Skip was the epitome of a “good dog,” always willing to go anywhere, confident, friendly, smart, playful, athletic, and a good leader for my other dogs. Barky? One of the best! He never met a stranger, and I often thought he’d go home with anyone. BUT Skip always came home with me. I miss his wonderful temperament and feel so lucky to have known such a "good dog" for so long. -- Martha Heisel, July 2020 |
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Molly Molly (Shorty Beans) 2/13/2003 - 10/10/2020 The human vocabulary does not hold enough beautiful words to pay tribute to this sweet soul. 3 months shy of 18 years old, and 8 wonderful years together. She has gone from one coast to another with me, and back again, with countless adventures in between. Her tender heart took on every animal I brought home, cried with me every time I did, and watched vigil through every sickness. Her own pain became more than medicine could help, and she was eased gently across the rainbow bridge. My heart is forever altered, and my definition of love forever changed. Molly, I'll hold you in my sweetest memories until we meet again on the other side, my baby dog. Thank you for our love story, NVSR. -- Jennifer Culbreath, October 2020 |
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Brodie
Our dear Brodie completed our family. We adopted this sweet and tender soul May 31, 2014 when he was 8 years old, and he passed at age 14.75 on Oct. 17, 2020. We will always cherish those 6 ½ years with this most special Sheltie. When we adopted Brodie, our mission was to make him feel like the most special boy in the world. And he was. Brodie loved his family as much as we loved him. He was sensitive, intuitive, and quite a gentleman. He enjoyed all people including babies and young children. He loved to be held, cuddled, and sung to. A comfy boy who liked wearing his ‘ninja’ socks (silent walker), his winter coats, and being covered in a nest of blankets after many goodnight kisses, he also enjoyed his toys – so many toys! He was so sweet and affectionate even towards his stuffed animals. |
Brodie was a prankster. Playfully nudging Daddy at the computer with a twinkle in his eyes, Brodie would flop over on his back and stretch out a leg for a scratch. Taking pleasure in teasing Mommy when she had pizza dough all over her hands, he would watch her working at the kitchen island, and then sneak off to ring his bells that hung on the side door as if he needed to be let out. She would stop and wash all that sticky dough off her hands, only to have Brodie bark at her (glint in his eyes!) as she opened the door and he refused to go outside. He just wanted her attention and kisses! This was the routine, and he got so tickled with himself each time! (As did Mommy, who always fell for it!) Brodie helped Mommy oversee things at home. Resting strategically where he could keep track of three doors and two levels, he sounded the Sheltie alarm and ran with a toy in his mouth, shaking it while barking (muffled barks!) and spinning to entice his human(s) to stay home. Our guests always got a chuckle; as you see, they too had become a part of the herd and were treated to such a display! Brodie would also nap on police gear by the front door so that he knew when his eldest brother left for shifts, and he brought toys to middle brother when his telework day ended, ready for play. A suburban pup, he also loved his family’s rural property with farm animals, woodland hikes, and zoomies in his field. Brodie’s biggest feat occurred this past summer when his brother was across the field in the backhoe. Brodie kept barking from the house, so he (on leash) and Mommy hiked across the field, where Brodie proceeded to herd the backhoe back across the field towards the garage. He was SO PROUD of himself -- once the backhoe was on the driveway, he immediately ceased barking, shivered with excitement, and trotted with his head held high, following the backhoe the last 100 feet to its parking spot. Brodie also enjoyed being a much loved grandpuppy to his Mimi and Deda, who would visit regularly with their special four-legged grandson. They agreed that Brodie was part human, being so smart and having such a personality. How blessed we were to be his family. NVSR, thank you so much for trusting us with this most precious boy. We love you always, our sweet little Brodie-bear. -- Janet, Chuck, David and Andrew Lynch, Mimi & Deda |
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Sir Harley All of my NVSR Shelties have been special and so unique. Sir Harley, our sweet, sweet boy was 16.5 years old and he never lost his trot! About a year ago, Harley accompanied our family on a mid-week trip to St Augustine, Florida. St. Augustine is a very dog-friendly town, so he joined us for walks and meals. One couple insisted that he must be a Westminster Dog! Sir Harley helped us say goodbye to my Dad, Jim who was 94. When it was his turn to go to the bridge, Mom (Rose, 97), my brother, Louis, and I were all with him. Here are some of my favorite pictures of Sir Harley doing what he did best -- being a wonderful Sheltie. -- Anne Pearo, August 2020 |
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Bandit
As Bandit aged and declined, we thought a lot about how our life with Bandit began. Leaving his foster home where we adopted him, I got in the car first and his foster mom, Jane, lifted Bandit up into my lap. Looking right at Bandit, knowing what our family was going through, she said to him: “You have some big shoes to fill, but you’re up to the task.” Her words meant so much then - and now. I did not expect Bandit’s passing to thrust me back to the trauma of that time in 2011. Bandit was up to the task. We loved him and loved him. He traveled with us, went to the beach, slept in hotels, the first dog allowed on the furniture. On his first day he selected a spot on the couch and hopped up. Instead "no,"’ we said "oh, isn’t that just so cute…" That was my daughter’s spot. Home from college, we asked her to move. That was now Bandit’s spot, remaining that for his whole time with us. Bandit had a beautiful life with us, and he also had a beautiful death, calm and peaceful - just old age, so deeply treasured until his last breath. When Bandit was approaching 11, we contacted NVSR again… and in August 2016 adopted Tia. Tia and Bandit were a difficult match. They fought for the past 3 1/2 years. Once in a while they played. Life was quite difficult in our house. Tia was pretty much feral and needed much more work than I ever thought I could manage, while at the same time ensuring that Bandit was never neglected! We managed, and Tia will now fill those big shoes, and thank god for her. She is my constant companion. We are so very grateful for the work that NVSR does and how it affected our lives. -- Jinny and Brett Isserow, December 2019 |
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Boo
In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Boo Radley is the hero to Jem and Scout. My dog Boo lived up to his namesake. Yesterday, we had a wonderful day, not realizing it was our last one together. It was a double-header of a day with a trip to both the dog park and a wagon walk. His big grin and wagging tail showed me how excited he was. Last night, I got concerned about his breathing since it was very labored and shallow. So I took him in to the vet for reassurance it's just old age, not expecting it to lead to the final sequence of events for Boo's time with us. As the vet and I evaluated his x-rays, I could only see how big his heart was relative to his size. It made sense how he had so much unconditional love, gratitude, and joy. That brought me so much delight that it distracted me from focusing on the swollen lymph nodes obstructing his airway. After a grand, joyful day that we had together, I was at peace letting him go riding this high of one of his best days. Love you, Boo. -- Catharine McNally, February 2020 [Boo was adopted in November 2013 when he was 6 years old.] |
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Waylon
Waylon came in to NVSR in December of 2005 with two other dogs, Justin (Robby) & Sebastian (Shadow) from a backyard breeder. Dave and the other foster parents met the transport people at a spot along the highway to take possession of the dogs that we were to foster. Waylon would be our 2nd foster so we were pretty green lol! He wouldn’t come out of the transport crate, so Dave reached in and of course he bit Dave. Putting the doors of the crates together, they basically poured Waylon into our crate. I was at work and really appreciated Dave taking time off to pick up Waylon … so was a bit horrified about the bite. When Dave got him home he worked at making friends with Waylon but Way would have none of it. Dave let him wander around our finished basement in hopes that it would make him feel at home, and of course Waylon hiked his leg on all the bookshelves that lined the walls in the basement LOL! I can laugh now, but boy oh boy I was not laughing then. So we learned a lot from our Way Way, Sir Freckles, Way Bear. Our Kelpie Jasmine took him under her wing and taught him proper people manners, house manners, how to play, how to walk on a leash, etc. She was amazing with him and he adored her for it. He was hitched to her side from the moment they were introduced. So Waylon stayed with us and we were glad to have this shy little guy as part of our family. Jasmine left us in September 2017 at age 17, and Waylon had a difficult time after having loved her for so long. Now Waylon is reunited with his lovely dog mom – we find some comfort in knowing that she was there to greet him and kiss him and take back the job of loving him so well. She will hold him close until we arrive. Deago, Waylon’s running buddy, will be there to run circles around all the rest of the dogs and play their favorite game of chase. I know that Waylon missed that when Deago went to the Bridge in March 2017. They were the three amigos and if I listen really hard, I can hear them tearing across the field together . Rest in peace, sweet boy, and thank you for 14 years of loving us so much. -- Donna and Dave Martin, January 2020 |
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Lucky Cloud
We had Lucky for over 7 years, and he turned 16 last August 22nd. Although a senior, people always thought he was a puppy. Blind in one eye and deaf, we didn't board him when we traveled, but always stayed at pet friendly hotels. Lucky traveled extremely well in his crate. He has been on many vacations: Ocean City MD, Hyannis and Nantucket MA, Bar Harbor ME, Ohio and North Carolina. We attended many of the NVSR picnics, too. Chuck bought a stroller for Lucky for our trip to New England last year. People looked in the stroller and were surprised to see a dog, not a baby. Lucky was perfect for us, an older retired couple who could be with him all day to attend to his needs. He never got excited except when he would come in from outside, dancing in circles. He and Missy, his 14 year old kitty friend, got along very well. Missy lay by his crate and even herded him, which she had learned from our last Sheltie. They were rarely out of each others' sight. We could not even imagine how much joy a little dog like Lucky Cloud would bring us. The thought of adopting an older dog with challenges was a little intimidating at first, but Lucky was so smart he got into a routine very quickly. When we first got him, he wouldn't go through the front door or up and down the stairs, but I taught him and he did very well. Lucky Cloud enriched our lives and we hope we did the same for him! -- Paula and Chuck Roberts, January 2020 |
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Jilly
Hello to all of you who have worked so hard to save so many Shelties. This is my last note to all of you. You made a difference in this girl's life. Being a smart Sheltie that I am, I have been trying to tell my mom that it is all right, that I am ready. I would wander off to the farthest corner of the yard where there is a statue of an angel. I would then just stand there and call Mom to rescue me again. I even did it once at two o'clock in the morning and it was really cold. She always came and got me, she loved that much. She finally got my message. I am now with my beloved friend, pointer Jessie. I know Mom appreciated all of your kind words. I appreciated NVSR for rescuing me and Mom Tuck for fostering me. Most of all I am grateful you found me a home where I was so very loved. -- Jilly Roo Jackson, April 2019 |
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Princess
Princess crossed the Rainbow Bridge on March 25, 2019 after developing myasthenia gravis. Mom and I rescued Princess in October 2011 when she was 3-4 years old. Her NVSR foster mom brought her for the home visit, and it was love at first sight! It didn't take her long to jump up on the couch to snuggle. Princess and Sasha (our 23-pound kitty cat) quickly became great friends, alternating between rough-housing on the rug in the hallway and sunbathing on the rug in the living room. In 2017, we rescued Little One, a 5-month old kitten and, as before, Princess and Little One became good friends. Though not fond of winter, Princess loved to sit on the front deck while we planted spring or fall flowers, barking her little heart out if she saw any of the neighbor's dogs being walked along the road! Even though we know she couldn't hear in the last few years, we would still tell her that she was “the most BEAUTIFULEST puppy dog in the WHOLE world”; she was our ONLY puppy dog, but I know she understood! I will so miss her waiting for me in the front hall, sleeping on my bed, and even getting me up at 6 a.m. to go out! Princess, till we meet again at the Rainbow Bridge, have fun playing with our other fur babies. Thank you, NVSR, for letting ours be her forever home for nearly 8 years. -- Christine Moan, April 2019 |
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Cody
Thank you, NVSR, for putting us together with our Cody. We sure loved him and he brought us great joy. Last week we had to say "See you later" to Cody. He came to live with us via Sheltie Rescue about nine years ago and was such a joy. He was the epitome of love, so happy just to be close to one of us. He was not over-demanding, he just wanted to be touched. What more can one ask?
A great traveler, Cody enjoyed the beaches of Florida and Oregon. It is so strange not to have him in the back seat waiting for a small treat after a restaurant stop. Our home seems so empty without the warm greetings he gave each time we came in the door. We certainly hope there is that Rainbow Bridge. -- David, Joan and Josh Biehler, February 2019
[Cody was adopted in March 2010 when he was 4 years old.]
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Nancy Moreno (January 10, 1964 to July 21, 2018)
NVSR lost a dedicated volunteer on July 21, 2018, in a very tragic event. Nancy Moreno was a good friend and a selfless person who always did more than her share. She joined our volunteer “Sheltie pack” in 2005 and helped share information about NVSR at many events. She also fostered several dogs, most notably a mother, Athena, and four puppies, and she found homes for each of them. Nancy loved to show off her own beautiful Shelties, Misty, Sesha, and Marcel. After these special dogs left her, she found Stormy, an energetic and “let’s do it NOW!” Sheltie pup who went everywhere with her. The last time we spent with Nancy was at our April 2018 Volunteer Day. We will always remember her wide smile and wonderful laugh at seeing a roomful of Shelties having so much fun, Stormy running out there with them. In addition to her volunteer work with NVSR, Nancy worked at the Federal Trade Commission and was a regular helper at a food bank in Sterling. Her charming personality livened up gatherings of friends, family, and especially NVSR gatherings. Nancy will be very much missed. |
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Bear
Just a few weeks ago (about a month or so after his 17th birthday), we said goodbye to our Bear. We really do miss him. I think he gave us the gift of making clear that it was his time to go, as well as seven wonderful years of being “his humans,” and it has been such a comfort to hear so many stories from friends and neighbors and colleagues who had gotten to know him since we brought him home back in 2011. Last summer, we adopted a kitten, and one of the best parts of our final year with Bear was seeing him become such a patient and indulgent friend to her (and her antics). I know she misses her “cuddle buddy” too - here is one of our favorite pictures of them.
Bear was a special, funny and handsome little guy, and Steve and I will always be so grateful to NVSR for bringing us together and for all that you did to take care of him and give him a “second act” in life. Thank you for all that you do to support other Sheltie families. -- Katie Cristol & Stephen Giballa, November 2018
Just a few weeks ago (about a month or so after his 17th birthday), we said goodbye to our Bear. We really do miss him. I think he gave us the gift of making clear that it was his time to go, as well as seven wonderful years of being “his humans,” and it has been such a comfort to hear so many stories from friends and neighbors and colleagues who had gotten to know him since we brought him home back in 2011. Last summer, we adopted a kitten, and one of the best parts of our final year with Bear was seeing him become such a patient and indulgent friend to her (and her antics). I know she misses her “cuddle buddy” too - here is one of our favorite pictures of them.
Bear was a special, funny and handsome little guy, and Steve and I will always be so grateful to NVSR for bringing us together and for all that you did to take care of him and give him a “second act” in life. Thank you for all that you do to support other Sheltie families. -- Katie Cristol & Stephen Giballa, November 2018
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Riley
Riley came into our lives shortly after the passing of our first NVSR rescue, Stoney. Although we were still mourning our loss, we were eager to bring another Sheltie rescue into our home. When we entered his foster home I spied two adorable Shelties sunning themselves on the outdoor patio, and I wondered which one was Riley (neither was). Riley announced himself immediately by running into the room, barking at us, then hiding under the couch out of reach. We were told that he was nervous around strangers (especially men), and that he also had an ongoing grudge against vacuums. My 10 year old son patiently fed Riley biscuits, coaxing him to come out and consider a walk with our family. He seemed unsure, but when we took him to our car he jumped right in and made himself at home. During his time with us he was the heart of our home. His fear of men and strangers faded quickly, though he remained opposed to the appearance of a vacuum until the end. Always on good behavior, he frequently was invited to friends’ homes during our visits, sought any opportunity to ride in the car with us (weather permitting), and joined us on one of our most memorable vacations after recovering from cancer several years ago. He had the time of his life taking a dog friendly boat cruise with us in Annapolis, then heading to Cape Charles to stay at a dog friendly hotel where he played endless rounds of fetch with my son, attended an outdoor jazz concert in the town square, and feasted on the Brown Dog’s famous dog ice cream. (Their people ice cream is delish, as well!) Riley’s origins are still a mystery. He spent weeks running loose in the Shenandoah forest until he was caught with no way to identify who he belonged to—no collar, no microchip. Fortunately for him he found his way to NVSR, and luckier for us, we were able to adopt him and to have him be a cherished part of our family for over seven years. It wasn’t long enough, though we are grateful for every day that we had with him. While with us he survived two bouts with cancer. So stoic and uncomplaining through surgeries and recovery; I always felt that Riley wanted to be strong for us. |
This January, Riley's cancer appeared again and this time we weren’t so fortunate. He left us in late October, but will remain with us forever in our hearts. Thank you, Riley, for being such an incredibly loving, gentle-natured best friend. And thank you NVSR, for bringing him into our lives. -- The Grossman Family, October 2018
[Riley was adopted in May 2011 when he was about 6-8 years old.] |
Honey
After we adopted Honey in 2011, she was so shy for the longest time. She didn’t come all the way out of her shell until we adopted another Sheltie, a puppy we named Stella. Stella is all puppy and has boundless energy. She kept after Honey, over and over until finally one day we watched in quiet fascination as Honey started responding and shortly after played with all her heart. They were buddies! They chased each other around and played. We even watched as Honey would get in a “play” pose - so awesome! She would approach people, tagging them hello, and letting the neighbor kids come into her “safe” zone to pet and love on her. We were so happy with that as she had been so fearful of children due to an incident that happened before she came to us.
On August 24th, Honey passed over the rainbow bridge peacefully in her sleep. She had developed a slow heart beat. We had a cardiologist appointment for her on August 27th, but apparently she did not want to keep that appointment!
We are heartbroken; she was such a loving sweetheart! But we are happy that we were able to give Honey the home she so richly deserved for as long as we had her. If she didn’t want to take a walk, she didn’t have to. If she wanted to eat her dinner on the sofa so be it! And in the end, she repaid us by going on her terms, quietly in her sleep, while we loved on her. So thank you, NVSR, for giving us the opportunity to have Honey in our home for as long as we did. -- Joyce Lammers and DJ Glattke
[Honey was adopted in April 2011 when she was 6 years old.] Posted August 2018
After we adopted Honey in 2011, she was so shy for the longest time. She didn’t come all the way out of her shell until we adopted another Sheltie, a puppy we named Stella. Stella is all puppy and has boundless energy. She kept after Honey, over and over until finally one day we watched in quiet fascination as Honey started responding and shortly after played with all her heart. They were buddies! They chased each other around and played. We even watched as Honey would get in a “play” pose - so awesome! She would approach people, tagging them hello, and letting the neighbor kids come into her “safe” zone to pet and love on her. We were so happy with that as she had been so fearful of children due to an incident that happened before she came to us.
On August 24th, Honey passed over the rainbow bridge peacefully in her sleep. She had developed a slow heart beat. We had a cardiologist appointment for her on August 27th, but apparently she did not want to keep that appointment!
We are heartbroken; she was such a loving sweetheart! But we are happy that we were able to give Honey the home she so richly deserved for as long as we had her. If she didn’t want to take a walk, she didn’t have to. If she wanted to eat her dinner on the sofa so be it! And in the end, she repaid us by going on her terms, quietly in her sleep, while we loved on her. So thank you, NVSR, for giving us the opportunity to have Honey in our home for as long as we did. -- Joyce Lammers and DJ Glattke
[Honey was adopted in April 2011 when she was 6 years old.] Posted August 2018
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Dusty
Dusty wrote a beautiful long letter to his human family (see below to read it). Here is some of it ... There are so many happy memories of my 8 years with you. Who would have thought I would live until almost 17! Trips back and forth from Pennsylvania to Michigan. Barking at the deer and turkeys to scare them away. Treeing that raccoon on top of our shed. “Watering” my own special tree you planted for me in my fenced yard. Barking at the fish along the breakwater at the marina. Walks in the National Park. Time with all my buddies – Cini, Kacey, Mercedes, Jessie, Cody, Madison, and Scout! How lucky could a guy get? Remember the summer when I escaped from doggy day care and disappeared into the Pere Marquette National Forest for five days? I had a blast but I know now how much you worried about me and how much time and effort you spent in finding me. Remember how at the NVSR picnic all the folks prayed for me? I must have heard them because that very evening I turned myself in at doggy day care and fortunately came back to live with you. I know the last year has been hard on you as you cared for me when I had cancer, but with the help of Dr. Clifford we beat that sucker! And then my liver problems. In the end I knew it was time to cross the Rainbow Bridge even though I wanted to live with you for the rest of your lives. But, that was not possible. My very special thanks for helping me to cross the Rainbow Bridge, knowing how difficult and painful that was for both of you, yet somehow knowing when it was no longer fun for me to be a dog. All my love, Dusty Alton Click here to read all of Dusty's lovely letter to his Mom and Dad. [Dusty was adopted in April 2010 when he was 8 years old.] |
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Rusty
Here are two of our favorite recent photos of our boy, Rusty, who died in September of Cushing's. He had a good time supervising our move to North Carolina. And, as you can see, he loves his meals, leaving some of it on his nose. We miss him every day. -- Kerstin and Ron Coleman, November 2017 [Rusty was adopted in August 2006 when he was estimated to be 3-5 years old.] |
Lucky
Hi, this is Leila, Lucky’s companion. Mom and Dad adopted me from NVSR about 9 years ago. Lucky asked me to make the last entry in his journal if he passed away. Well, he did it last night in his sleep so I guess he’s happily at the Rainbow Bridge running around like a young dog. He was worried about the progression of his kidney disease and was unhappy that his body was failing on him. But he was happy that NVSR rescued him and that he had a great 5 years here with us. He kept an upbeat outlook on life which impressed all of us. He asked me include his latest Haiku in this journal entry. I told him it was a little too bittersweet for my taste, but he insisted. Leila Speed, August 3, 2017
Only five years with Dad
Green, red, and gold leaves falling
Forever – a hollow term
And, from Lucky's Dad, Claude: Lucky wanted me to compile his journal and send it to you, so it’s attached. I hope everyone reading about this great dog will enjoy his adventures. Lucky was my best buddy and the best fur friend a guy could wish for. I really appreciate y’all rescuing him and allowing him to live with us.
[Lucky was adopted in March 2012 when he was 8 years old.]
Click here to read Lucky's Journal.
We're sad to report that Lucky's buddy, Leila, passed away just a month after Lucky did. She was adopted in November 2007 when she was 2 years old.
Hi, this is Leila, Lucky’s companion. Mom and Dad adopted me from NVSR about 9 years ago. Lucky asked me to make the last entry in his journal if he passed away. Well, he did it last night in his sleep so I guess he’s happily at the Rainbow Bridge running around like a young dog. He was worried about the progression of his kidney disease and was unhappy that his body was failing on him. But he was happy that NVSR rescued him and that he had a great 5 years here with us. He kept an upbeat outlook on life which impressed all of us. He asked me include his latest Haiku in this journal entry. I told him it was a little too bittersweet for my taste, but he insisted. Leila Speed, August 3, 2017
Only five years with Dad
Green, red, and gold leaves falling
Forever – a hollow term
And, from Lucky's Dad, Claude: Lucky wanted me to compile his journal and send it to you, so it’s attached. I hope everyone reading about this great dog will enjoy his adventures. Lucky was my best buddy and the best fur friend a guy could wish for. I really appreciate y’all rescuing him and allowing him to live with us.
[Lucky was adopted in March 2012 when he was 8 years old.]
Click here to read Lucky's Journal.
We're sad to report that Lucky's buddy, Leila, passed away just a month after Lucky did. She was adopted in November 2007 when she was 2 years old.
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Ginger
Ginger came to us in January of 2002 from NVSR. She was a frightened one year old little girl who had had a difficult first year. She had a very hard time with strangers, especially men, and it took her a long time to feel comfortable. Slowly she learned to trust all of us and eventually to welcome others and relax, once she was told that it was "all right." Ginger became the "mother" of the family. She welcomed and nurtured every new puppy or kitty and grandchild who came into the home, on visits or as permanent residents. She was a gentle, loving, loyal friend to so many. In July of 2015 a little collie puppy joined the household and he immediately bonded with her. I think he honestly thought Ginger was his mother or at least a close aunt. Ginger was by this time an old lady of 14 1/2 but she took him on, as she had so many before him. Eph soon learned that she could be his eating companion and his security and rest friend but not his running or Frisbee mate; that was reserved for Wilbur, the Australian Shepherd who was rescued from West Virginia in 2007. Ginger stayed with us for all these wonderful years but on June 22nd passed away at the age of 16 1/2. We are all very lonely for our beautiful sweet companion. Eph has looked for her, especially the first few days, and both boys seem in need of extra hugs. She will be with us in our hearts forever. We will always be grateful to NVSR for bringing us this wonderful girl who was such an important part of our family. Thank you all, Madeleine Arnheim, June 2017 |
Bosley
I still can't believe you're gone. Eight years is too short to have you in my life. Home is very quiet and empty. The absence of you is overwhelming. The apartment is adorned with your photos. Neighbors stop me to ask where you are because it's so rare that you aren't by my side. Your ashes are by my bed so I can say, "Good night, Mama loves you," like I did when you were still here. So now I will have to say, "Goodbye, Bosley, Mama will always love you." -- Robin Bennett, July 2017
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Hailee
We rescued Hailee just five short years ago this June. Although she was with us for only five extremely short years, she filled our lives with so much joy. She was a great doggie mom to the two Sheltie puppies we got not long before. And after she joined our fur family, they were wonderful companions to our middle aged girl. Hailee was without a doubt a Daddy's girl - pretty ironic for the girl we were told wasn't very fond of men. We decided she just hadn't met the right one until my husband - because there was a quick and inseparable bond between the two of them. Hailee had an amazing sense of humor and loved to talk - "think Snoopy from Peanuts" - she made the funniest noises. We miss her greatly. We thank you again for all of the wonderful work you do with these delightful dogs. -- Anita & John McMahon, May 2017 |
Huey
For the last six years we have lived with and loved our Huey. He was truly precious in every way. Never showing a tooth, never angry, never upset ... he was always our sweet, gentle soul. There isn't enough sweet in sweet to describe him and we've had many a Sheltie pass through our doors. Thank you for allowing us to be Huey's forever home. We were blessed beyond measure.
Huey loved the quiet life. Loved riding is his big red wagon. Loved walking out to help feed the birds, hoping a few peanuts would fall to the ground for an unexpected treat. Loved his breakfast and dinner, looking forward to every meal and every snack. Loved to kiss and loved to hug.
Our home may feel empty, but our hearts are full ... full of Huey Love -- Lane and Mike Shelton, April 2017
For the last six years we have lived with and loved our Huey. He was truly precious in every way. Never showing a tooth, never angry, never upset ... he was always our sweet, gentle soul. There isn't enough sweet in sweet to describe him and we've had many a Sheltie pass through our doors. Thank you for allowing us to be Huey's forever home. We were blessed beyond measure.
Huey loved the quiet life. Loved riding is his big red wagon. Loved walking out to help feed the birds, hoping a few peanuts would fall to the ground for an unexpected treat. Loved his breakfast and dinner, looking forward to every meal and every snack. Loved to kiss and loved to hug.
Our home may feel empty, but our hearts are full ... full of Huey Love -- Lane and Mike Shelton, April 2017
Arthur
We miss Arthur more than we can say. All our friends at NVSR understand how we feel. Fourteen years may be a long time for a dog, but it doesn't seem nearly long enough. It is harder to take since we lost MacGregor last year; Mac was not an NVSR dog but we loved him, too. We still have Princess Carly but she is 14 years old, and we know our time with her is limited. Here is our favorite memory of Arthur. When Arthur was still a young pup there was a huge swarm of dragonflies in the front yard. Arthur saw them and started leaping and jumping in the middle of the swarm. He didn't bite or snap at the dragonflies but just leaped for joy. I always thought that Arthur believed that if he could just jump a little higher he could fly with them. I like to think that Arthur can do whatever he wants now. We would like to thank NVSR for letting Arthur share our lives. -- Lynn and Clay Ellis (November 13, 2016)
Summer
I so miss my little friend - or should I say boss. Summer was always there with me no matter what room we were headed into. She would walk along ahead of me carefully checking back that I was following. Kitchens were always her favorite. She was a dedicated house ornament unless the "big dogs" were out to play a round of fetch. Then Summer turned into an accomplished cheerleader. While the other dogs chased that nasty ball, Summer barked happily on the side. And although she is the smallest Sheltie I have owned, she told those other dogs when they were doing well or needed improvement. It was a stitch to watch Molly, who is easily twice her size, shy off when Summer decided Molly was walking too close to her. The foyer was her domain and no one better forget it. Of course, the smallest dog had the most dominating personality. I am grateful she grew to love me and spent her last years where she could rule supreme. It is amazing how such a little dog can carve such a large place in our hearts. -- Kathy Goodwyn (December 5, 2016)
I so miss my little friend - or should I say boss. Summer was always there with me no matter what room we were headed into. She would walk along ahead of me carefully checking back that I was following. Kitchens were always her favorite. She was a dedicated house ornament unless the "big dogs" were out to play a round of fetch. Then Summer turned into an accomplished cheerleader. While the other dogs chased that nasty ball, Summer barked happily on the side. And although she is the smallest Sheltie I have owned, she told those other dogs when they were doing well or needed improvement. It was a stitch to watch Molly, who is easily twice her size, shy off when Summer decided Molly was walking too close to her. The foyer was her domain and no one better forget it. Of course, the smallest dog had the most dominating personality. I am grateful she grew to love me and spent her last years where she could rule supreme. It is amazing how such a little dog can carve such a large place in our hearts. -- Kathy Goodwyn (December 5, 2016)
Jet
We lost our beloved Sheltie, Jet, last night. Adopted in 2009 from NVSR and loving foster mom Martha, he was the perfect dog (especially after we adopted Sam later that year) for our daughter to grow up with. We are sad beyond belief but grateful for the years we had with him. While the whole family was sitting with him and saying goodbye, my daughter put together this collage on her phone. -- Audrey, Scott, and Katrina Kestner ... Sam, too. (December 7, 2016)
Kirby and his blind poodle friend, Max, go for a ride.
Kirby
It is with great sadness that we want our friends to know that Kirby left us on Saturday October 29, 2016, from old age. He passed away in his sleep at home surrounded by his family, on his favorite comfy spot. Kirby was such a wonderful pet and family member. Both Debbie and I miss him and his gentle ways. I am sure doggie heaven has made a place for him. He was a very special boy. I know he would have loved to have seen Donna (his foster mom) one last time. It was always special watching him greet her, kiss her, and smile at her. Donna, you were his special friend and savior, and I believe he always knew that in his heart. We would like to thank Donna and the NVSR team for matching us up with Kirby.
At first Kirby was not the dog we were looking for, at least not in the physical sense. He was a bigger dog, only slightly resembling a Sheltie. He had more border collie than Sheltie features, a ton of long - and longer - fur, and generally did not feel "Sheltie." However, he was a true Sheltie. From barking, herding, and playing, he made his presence known. Kirby was a great companion, defender, and surveyor. He enjoyed strolling on long and short walks, had a stomach clock that you could set the atomic clock to, and relished the chance to ride in the car. Kirby's gentle and loving nature always invited a good hug and kiss. If you had a treat, well, then more was in store!
Kirby loved his siblings, his forever home, and his adopted parents. Kirby is survived by Jodie, our other NVSR adoptee, and by Baby, a dachshund rescue. We are eternally grateful for the eight years we shared together. -- John and Debbie Pitchford
[Kirby was adopted in August 2008 at the age of 4 years.]
Anneka
Anneka came to my foster home at an obese 28 pounds, lethargic, her coat shaved down to her skin. Over time, I worked with her to lose the excess weight, treated her hypothyroidism, and brought her back to health. After I adopted her in October 2008, she was a two-time NVSR calendar girl (February 2010 and May 2014). She carried herself with pride, as though she always knew she was a beauty. She constantly turned heads when on her walks-- even as we walked away from the vet's office with my eyes red from crying, knowing she didn't have long to be with me, I could hear people in the waiting room commenting on her looks.
Anneka was also a therapy dog-- first for me, and then for my psychotherapy clients. She moved with me to Seattle, flying bravely in the belly of the plane. She accompanied me on my doctoral internship, sat with distressed clients, let them pet her, and occasionally kissed away their tears. She loved squirrels, birds, and when they weren't around, took to chasing crows. She even tried her paws at herding sheep in rural Washington State (but only the big ones would do). Above all, however, Anneka was my companion: the one who greeted me with enthusiastic barks when I came home, my alarm clock, my shadow, my confidante, my study buddy, and my consoler. When I found out I hadn't matched to an internship, Anneka instinctively jumped up on the couch where I was and pushed her little body between my back and the couch as if to remind me that she had my back.
On her last day, my partner and I sat with Anneka on my back deck in one of those glorious, crystal clear, blue-sky-days of September in Seattle, the sun shining down on her sweet face. I held her in my arms with her stuffed bear and dahlias from my garden in her hair. I told her how much I loved her, what an amazing and gentle soul she was, and how she had touched so many lives-- mine, those of my clients, and strangers who were taken by her "show girl" beauty. Rest easy, my dear, sweet Anneka. I miss you so very much. -- Marta Miranda, September 2016
Anneka came to my foster home at an obese 28 pounds, lethargic, her coat shaved down to her skin. Over time, I worked with her to lose the excess weight, treated her hypothyroidism, and brought her back to health. After I adopted her in October 2008, she was a two-time NVSR calendar girl (February 2010 and May 2014). She carried herself with pride, as though she always knew she was a beauty. She constantly turned heads when on her walks-- even as we walked away from the vet's office with my eyes red from crying, knowing she didn't have long to be with me, I could hear people in the waiting room commenting on her looks.
Anneka was also a therapy dog-- first for me, and then for my psychotherapy clients. She moved with me to Seattle, flying bravely in the belly of the plane. She accompanied me on my doctoral internship, sat with distressed clients, let them pet her, and occasionally kissed away their tears. She loved squirrels, birds, and when they weren't around, took to chasing crows. She even tried her paws at herding sheep in rural Washington State (but only the big ones would do). Above all, however, Anneka was my companion: the one who greeted me with enthusiastic barks when I came home, my alarm clock, my shadow, my confidante, my study buddy, and my consoler. When I found out I hadn't matched to an internship, Anneka instinctively jumped up on the couch where I was and pushed her little body between my back and the couch as if to remind me that she had my back.
On her last day, my partner and I sat with Anneka on my back deck in one of those glorious, crystal clear, blue-sky-days of September in Seattle, the sun shining down on her sweet face. I held her in my arms with her stuffed bear and dahlias from my garden in her hair. I told her how much I loved her, what an amazing and gentle soul she was, and how she had touched so many lives-- mine, those of my clients, and strangers who were taken by her "show girl" beauty. Rest easy, my dear, sweet Anneka. I miss you so very much. -- Marta Miranda, September 2016
Laila
Laila was the best family dog that we have ever had. Fred was more of a one person (always me) velcro dog. Laila wasn't - she kept track of all of us - and went wherever the action was. She still played with toys - especially the raggy/squeaky kind. She loved to go on our morning walks - she would "let me have my coffee" and then put her head on my leg and pester me until I got up. Every morning when I clipped on her leash, I asked her "who is the best dog ever?" and she would bark to acknowledge that SHE was.
I'd like to thank NVSR for giving us the privilege of owning "the best dog ever." She was also fondly called "Laila Pants" which Jenni started and we continued. She is missed every day but we wouldn't trade the time we had with her for anything. -- Debbie Meade, May 2016
Laila was the best family dog that we have ever had. Fred was more of a one person (always me) velcro dog. Laila wasn't - she kept track of all of us - and went wherever the action was. She still played with toys - especially the raggy/squeaky kind. She loved to go on our morning walks - she would "let me have my coffee" and then put her head on my leg and pester me until I got up. Every morning when I clipped on her leash, I asked her "who is the best dog ever?" and she would bark to acknowledge that SHE was.
I'd like to thank NVSR for giving us the privilege of owning "the best dog ever." She was also fondly called "Laila Pants" which Jenni started and we continued. She is missed every day but we wouldn't trade the time we had with her for anything. -- Debbie Meade, May 2016
Cubby
Cubby, "His Cubbiness," brought such happiness and unexpected joy. I loved his smile. He was an old fellow of 12 when I adopted him in February 2014, but his spirit was still young. He knew the moment he put his paws into my home, he had found his earthly forever home. I remember how he loved the snow and loved to play in it. He loved the beach - he was a true beach bum!! He loved his home and all the endless smells around his home in the woods. Most of all, he loved to dance. He started dancing for his treats, and I encouraged it. He won 2nd place in the Sheltie Strut contest at the 2015 picnic! It will be a heartache not to attend with His Cubbiness this year. I would ask that everyone at Rescue please remember Cubby as the Sheltie who danced on the red carpet in the sun last year - that was Cubby's true spirit.
I will remember my bright-eyed, smiling, sweet, loving Cubby always. Every single furred soul that I've adopted has became a companion and a family member, some have gone further and have stretched their paws back in equal friendship as well. Cubby was one of those. He reached out with his paw and heart and became a soulmate and a friend.
Thank you for the true blessing of bringing Cubby into my life. My life has been richer for knowing him and loving him. -- Anne Burke, August 2016
Cubby, "His Cubbiness," brought such happiness and unexpected joy. I loved his smile. He was an old fellow of 12 when I adopted him in February 2014, but his spirit was still young. He knew the moment he put his paws into my home, he had found his earthly forever home. I remember how he loved the snow and loved to play in it. He loved the beach - he was a true beach bum!! He loved his home and all the endless smells around his home in the woods. Most of all, he loved to dance. He started dancing for his treats, and I encouraged it. He won 2nd place in the Sheltie Strut contest at the 2015 picnic! It will be a heartache not to attend with His Cubbiness this year. I would ask that everyone at Rescue please remember Cubby as the Sheltie who danced on the red carpet in the sun last year - that was Cubby's true spirit.
I will remember my bright-eyed, smiling, sweet, loving Cubby always. Every single furred soul that I've adopted has became a companion and a family member, some have gone further and have stretched their paws back in equal friendship as well. Cubby was one of those. He reached out with his paw and heart and became a soulmate and a friend.
Thank you for the true blessing of bringing Cubby into my life. My life has been richer for knowing him and loving him. -- Anne Burke, August 2016
Romeo
My Romeo lost his battle with nasal cancer. Although his spirit remained strong until the end, his body eventually failed him. Fiercely loyal to me, heaven help you if you tried to get between him and me.
It seemed like we did everything together. From making cross-country road trips to chasing deer (and everything else that moved), our bond was inseparable. The minute we first met, I knew he was the one (and I think he knew I was the one, as well). Of all the canine companions I've had in my life, none can compare to Romeo.
Rest easy my sweet friend, and know that you will be sorely missed. -- Tim Wheat, July 2016
Scamp
On Jan. 15, 2009, NVSR brought Scamp into our lives. He was well-named as he loved to "scamp" around and have you chase him. He had had a few traumas before he came to us and had lost some of his hair due to his past experiences. He soon grew his hair back and was our lovely little Sheltie. We fell in love with him right away, and he reciprocated with such devotion and affection. He barked and greeted everyone who came to our home, and barked when they were leaving.
This last year, Scamp’s health deteriorated. He had been on special food for a couple of years and then stopped eating and was diagnosed with enlarged prostate. Tuesday we made the decision to let him go to the rainbow bridge. He was gently put to sleep with my loving arms around him, and we miss him terribly. We want to thank NVSR for bringing Scamp to us as he was a wonderful loving companion. -- Marilyn and Frank Cavallaro, July 2016
On Jan. 15, 2009, NVSR brought Scamp into our lives. He was well-named as he loved to "scamp" around and have you chase him. He had had a few traumas before he came to us and had lost some of his hair due to his past experiences. He soon grew his hair back and was our lovely little Sheltie. We fell in love with him right away, and he reciprocated with such devotion and affection. He barked and greeted everyone who came to our home, and barked when they were leaving.
This last year, Scamp’s health deteriorated. He had been on special food for a couple of years and then stopped eating and was diagnosed with enlarged prostate. Tuesday we made the decision to let him go to the rainbow bridge. He was gently put to sleep with my loving arms around him, and we miss him terribly. We want to thank NVSR for bringing Scamp to us as he was a wonderful loving companion. -- Marilyn and Frank Cavallaro, July 2016
Jenny Terra Cotta
She was so thin yet so very strong.
The Omega to adoptive brother Sir Shelton; the Alpha for all else.
She sent Sir Shelton on task while she stole the goods.
Her human Mom was none the wiser.
It was the grandparents that understood.
She humored her humans who wanted to jog.
She helped them realize it was wiser to walk.
She rode shotgun from DC to FL and all parts between.
She never complained always enjoying the scene.
She was an elder care dog gracefully serving others in need.
But rest assured, she knew full well where to grab the next treat.
She’d steal from you as well as accomplish good deeds.
She frolicked well with others, sweetly stating her needs.
She was our Terra; none will succeed.
She excelled in all and at everything she did.
She was sleek. She was stealth; even when weary toward the end.
She was usually the old lady in the yard.
She was next to the oldest at The Avant when she finished standing guard.
She delighted all in everything she did.
She was her human Mom’s rock through thick and through thin.
Great dog, great companion; you’re one of a kind.
You’re missed here on earth among mankind.
You’re missed more than words can express.
But you deserve to romp, thieve, and relish in Heavenly bliss.
Rest well, great girl.
And hold a place for the time when I cross that bridge to enter the Divine.
In the meantime, catch up with Sir Shelton and meet Misty Dawn. For the three of you have helped me live so very strong.
I love you always, Jenny Terra Cotta Pearo. -- Anne Pearo, July 2016
She was so thin yet so very strong.
The Omega to adoptive brother Sir Shelton; the Alpha for all else.
She sent Sir Shelton on task while she stole the goods.
Her human Mom was none the wiser.
It was the grandparents that understood.
She humored her humans who wanted to jog.
She helped them realize it was wiser to walk.
She rode shotgun from DC to FL and all parts between.
She never complained always enjoying the scene.
She was an elder care dog gracefully serving others in need.
But rest assured, she knew full well where to grab the next treat.
She’d steal from you as well as accomplish good deeds.
She frolicked well with others, sweetly stating her needs.
She was our Terra; none will succeed.
She excelled in all and at everything she did.
She was sleek. She was stealth; even when weary toward the end.
She was usually the old lady in the yard.
She was next to the oldest at The Avant when she finished standing guard.
She delighted all in everything she did.
She was her human Mom’s rock through thick and through thin.
Great dog, great companion; you’re one of a kind.
You’re missed here on earth among mankind.
You’re missed more than words can express.
But you deserve to romp, thieve, and relish in Heavenly bliss.
Rest well, great girl.
And hold a place for the time when I cross that bridge to enter the Divine.
In the meantime, catch up with Sir Shelton and meet Misty Dawn. For the three of you have helped me live so very strong.
I love you always, Jenny Terra Cotta Pearo. -- Anne Pearo, July 2016
Jessie
It’s Saturday morning, May 14, 2016, just two days shy of being a year since I had my cat, Pyro, put to sleep. Now here Jessie and I are sitting on a blanket on the floor of an exam room as we wait for the vet to come in and administer the final shot for my Sheltie girl. (How old is she? Who knows? 11? 12? More? Doesn’t matter. This is not a contest.)
Chains of smiling sock monkeys in a rainbow of primary colors dance across the sky blue background of the blanket on the floor beneath us.
Pyro never gave up pestering Jessie to interact with him—dancing up trying to entice her to play every morning, nosing in her face while she chewed on a dental treat, sniffing the feathers in her soft little tipped ears while she napped. Mostly Jessie ignored all this. Whenever she’d had enough, she’d simply get up and walk away. Jessie was all about unconditional love. Pyro’s burning ambition was inter-galactic domination.
After Pyro died, Basil came to us from the Siamese Cat Rescue Center in Virginia. Basil is a big boy, and it seemed like Jessie thought he had to be some sort of little dog, because he sure didn’t act anything like that #@??##!! cat, Pyro. Basil just liked to sniff noses, rub himself against Jessie’s legs, and hang out with her.
Dr. Eastep enters the exam room and administers the shot to Jessie. Jessie’s breathing eases, and soon I feel a soft shudder run through her body as I sit there on the floor holding her in my arms. Dr. Eastep assures me that Jessie is gone now; the shudder was simply a natural muscle reflex. I say, “I know.”
What I really know is, the shudder was just Jessie sighing in resignation, “Tell little dog Basil bye for me. I gotta go cross this bridge now and see if I can find that #@??#!! cat.” -- Carol Herbert, May 2016
It’s Saturday morning, May 14, 2016, just two days shy of being a year since I had my cat, Pyro, put to sleep. Now here Jessie and I are sitting on a blanket on the floor of an exam room as we wait for the vet to come in and administer the final shot for my Sheltie girl. (How old is she? Who knows? 11? 12? More? Doesn’t matter. This is not a contest.)
Chains of smiling sock monkeys in a rainbow of primary colors dance across the sky blue background of the blanket on the floor beneath us.
Pyro never gave up pestering Jessie to interact with him—dancing up trying to entice her to play every morning, nosing in her face while she chewed on a dental treat, sniffing the feathers in her soft little tipped ears while she napped. Mostly Jessie ignored all this. Whenever she’d had enough, she’d simply get up and walk away. Jessie was all about unconditional love. Pyro’s burning ambition was inter-galactic domination.
After Pyro died, Basil came to us from the Siamese Cat Rescue Center in Virginia. Basil is a big boy, and it seemed like Jessie thought he had to be some sort of little dog, because he sure didn’t act anything like that #@??##!! cat, Pyro. Basil just liked to sniff noses, rub himself against Jessie’s legs, and hang out with her.
Dr. Eastep enters the exam room and administers the shot to Jessie. Jessie’s breathing eases, and soon I feel a soft shudder run through her body as I sit there on the floor holding her in my arms. Dr. Eastep assures me that Jessie is gone now; the shudder was simply a natural muscle reflex. I say, “I know.”
What I really know is, the shudder was just Jessie sighing in resignation, “Tell little dog Basil bye for me. I gotta go cross this bridge now and see if I can find that #@??#!! cat.” -- Carol Herbert, May 2016
Rocky
Here is a beautiful photo of Rocky taken last January. He looks pretty happy and still quite handsome. I will never forget how Julie fostered Rocky (his original name was Rocky Too), and the day she brought him to our home for a pre-adoption visit. He met our Oliver, who was also five years old at the time, and it looked like things would work out well. In fact, Rocky amazed Julie by coming over and putting his head next to my leg looking for a pat.
Rocky was a runner; he had gotten away from Julie during a walk in a park in Fairfax County. It took many anxious hours for Julie to find him and coax him back to her, looking a muddy mess. With us, Rocky settled down with Oliver, our brash and bold big boy. It took a very long time before he stopped hiding in the bushes every time my husband came home from work.
I took Rocky to work with me some days and one of my colleagues dubbed him "Rocky the Rocket," because he would take off like a rocket whenever someone came near. Eventually, Rocky became a confident, well-adjusted creature who was able to take life in stride. We just adored him, and he adored us. It turned out to be quite a match; we got to spend a little more than ten years together. What more could one ask? -- Rea and Tom Howarth, March 2016
Here is a beautiful photo of Rocky taken last January. He looks pretty happy and still quite handsome. I will never forget how Julie fostered Rocky (his original name was Rocky Too), and the day she brought him to our home for a pre-adoption visit. He met our Oliver, who was also five years old at the time, and it looked like things would work out well. In fact, Rocky amazed Julie by coming over and putting his head next to my leg looking for a pat.
Rocky was a runner; he had gotten away from Julie during a walk in a park in Fairfax County. It took many anxious hours for Julie to find him and coax him back to her, looking a muddy mess. With us, Rocky settled down with Oliver, our brash and bold big boy. It took a very long time before he stopped hiding in the bushes every time my husband came home from work.
I took Rocky to work with me some days and one of my colleagues dubbed him "Rocky the Rocket," because he would take off like a rocket whenever someone came near. Eventually, Rocky became a confident, well-adjusted creature who was able to take life in stride. We just adored him, and he adored us. It turned out to be quite a match; we got to spend a little more than ten years together. What more could one ask? -- Rea and Tom Howarth, March 2016
Logan
Into our lives this lovely light shone,
A rescued angel in search of a home.
He stole our hearts, he blossomed and grew,
Into a loving companion, faithful and true.
Now his steps have faltered and his coat turned to grey,
And the Lord has whistled our angel home to stay.
Words don’t exist to express our love,
And our loss will be felt for years to come.
In Loving Memory of Logan 2005-2016
--Karen, Tom, and Krista Early, March 15, 2016
Into our lives this lovely light shone,
A rescued angel in search of a home.
He stole our hearts, he blossomed and grew,
Into a loving companion, faithful and true.
Now his steps have faltered and his coat turned to grey,
And the Lord has whistled our angel home to stay.
Words don’t exist to express our love,
And our loss will be felt for years to come.
In Loving Memory of Logan 2005-2016
--Karen, Tom, and Krista Early, March 15, 2016
Lady Beth
Lady Beth came to me from NVSR, in March of 2013, as a permanent foster. She was 13 and deaf, with painful arthritis, but with a heart full of love and a wonderful spirit. She was a courageous and noble soul, who loved everyone she met. It was my privilege to care for her until the day she went to the Rainbow Bridge, April 2, 2015. I look forward to seeing her again someday. She was an exceptional being of Light. God Bless You, Lady Beth. -- Pat Thayer
Della
Yesterday, our darling Della went to the Bridge at 6 years old. After only 11 months in our lives, she was diagnosed in September with lymphoma. Although shorter than it should have been, her 15 months with us was very special (a definite blessing), and we wouldn't trade the experience even with this heartbreak of losing her so soon.
Della had the SWEETEST disposition but also a silly, crazy, fun side which she demonstrated at home -- playing with her multiple hedgehogs and chasing tennis balls. She came into NVSR very overweight, but with good food and exercise, she lost 17 pounds (maybe the cancer also played a part?). She loved green beans and would eat them before eating her dog food. She learned how to chase squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits, and even alerted us twice to bears passing by at our mountain house. She passed her Canine Good Citizen test and became a Sunshine Buddy visiting senior residents at Culpepper Gardens in Arlington.
She is greatly missed, but Della was happy and loved while with us and brought a lot of JOY to our lives and LAUGHTER with her silliness. "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." We are smiling and crying. -- Joyce and Wade Miller, January 2016
Here's a video of Bella playing with one of her many balls last November.
Yesterday, our darling Della went to the Bridge at 6 years old. After only 11 months in our lives, she was diagnosed in September with lymphoma. Although shorter than it should have been, her 15 months with us was very special (a definite blessing), and we wouldn't trade the experience even with this heartbreak of losing her so soon.
Della had the SWEETEST disposition but also a silly, crazy, fun side which she demonstrated at home -- playing with her multiple hedgehogs and chasing tennis balls. She came into NVSR very overweight, but with good food and exercise, she lost 17 pounds (maybe the cancer also played a part?). She loved green beans and would eat them before eating her dog food. She learned how to chase squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits, and even alerted us twice to bears passing by at our mountain house. She passed her Canine Good Citizen test and became a Sunshine Buddy visiting senior residents at Culpepper Gardens in Arlington.
She is greatly missed, but Della was happy and loved while with us and brought a lot of JOY to our lives and LAUGHTER with her silliness. "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." We are smiling and crying. -- Joyce and Wade Miller, January 2016
Here's a video of Bella playing with one of her many balls last November.
Glacier
Glacier ... my heart dog. I miss your loving eyes - one blue and one brown - your "always on duty" approach to the world, your welcoming attention to the many foster dogs who visited with us, and your unique beauty and grace. We met by luck when you were a 9-month old pup cast off by a backyard breeder as "too ugly to sell." It took months for you to come willingly out of your hidey-hole corner and spend time next to me. But we bonded very closely, didn't we? We spent so many happy hours and trod so many miles together, finding a few more Shelties to share our home, and helping so many more find their own homes. The memories I treasure most about you, my beautiful boy, are the times we were together quietly watching the sun set on a mountain stream or a view from the top of the trail. Just the two of us. I think of you every day, my handsome, dear friend. Thank you for gracing my life with your presence for 15 wonderful years. -- Martha Heisel (Glacier died May 3, 2013) Here's Glacier just months before he died.
Glacier ... my heart dog. I miss your loving eyes - one blue and one brown - your "always on duty" approach to the world, your welcoming attention to the many foster dogs who visited with us, and your unique beauty and grace. We met by luck when you were a 9-month old pup cast off by a backyard breeder as "too ugly to sell." It took months for you to come willingly out of your hidey-hole corner and spend time next to me. But we bonded very closely, didn't we? We spent so many happy hours and trod so many miles together, finding a few more Shelties to share our home, and helping so many more find their own homes. The memories I treasure most about you, my beautiful boy, are the times we were together quietly watching the sun set on a mountain stream or a view from the top of the trail. Just the two of us. I think of you every day, my handsome, dear friend. Thank you for gracing my life with your presence for 15 wonderful years. -- Martha Heisel (Glacier died May 3, 2013) Here's Glacier just months before he died.
Chance
With heavy heart, I announce that my sweet beautiful Chance crossed Rainbow Bridge on October 28. Chance was an absolute delight -- he was the perfect dog. He was in congestive heart failure for more than a year but suddenly took a turn for the worse. He died peacefully in my arms.
Chance came to me in January of 2007 thanks to “Aunt Martha,” who thought he would fit in well in my home, and she was so right! It was tough at first because Chance was quite scared and timid and hid in my bedroom most of the time. But after a while, he made himself fully at home and ruled the roost!
Chance was an Ambassador for NVSR, doing home visits and impressing everyone he met with his beauty, sweetness, and gentleness. He loved other dogs, especially his buddies in the neighborhood who would romp with him in our backyards. He would run out the back door and was very busy scaring off those pesky squirrels, but he had no problem sharing space with the bunnies that run around the neighborhood. Chance loved kids, especially my grandchildren who hugged him all the time. And, Chance loved to be petted – everyone liked to stop and pet this beautiful dog.
His life was too short but it was a good life once he came to NVSR - Thank you, NVSR for giving me this wonderful companion. I will miss him every day ... and while it is always tough to let our beloved pets go, the joy of having Chance with me for almost nine years is immeasurable. -- Cindy Foreso, November 2015
With heavy heart, I announce that my sweet beautiful Chance crossed Rainbow Bridge on October 28. Chance was an absolute delight -- he was the perfect dog. He was in congestive heart failure for more than a year but suddenly took a turn for the worse. He died peacefully in my arms.
Chance came to me in January of 2007 thanks to “Aunt Martha,” who thought he would fit in well in my home, and she was so right! It was tough at first because Chance was quite scared and timid and hid in my bedroom most of the time. But after a while, he made himself fully at home and ruled the roost!
Chance was an Ambassador for NVSR, doing home visits and impressing everyone he met with his beauty, sweetness, and gentleness. He loved other dogs, especially his buddies in the neighborhood who would romp with him in our backyards. He would run out the back door and was very busy scaring off those pesky squirrels, but he had no problem sharing space with the bunnies that run around the neighborhood. Chance loved kids, especially my grandchildren who hugged him all the time. And, Chance loved to be petted – everyone liked to stop and pet this beautiful dog.
His life was too short but it was a good life once he came to NVSR - Thank you, NVSR for giving me this wonderful companion. I will miss him every day ... and while it is always tough to let our beloved pets go, the joy of having Chance with me for almost nine years is immeasurable. -- Cindy Foreso, November 2015
Shelly
Shelly came to NVSR when her owner could no longer keep her in the assisted living facility where he resided. She was 13 years old with a very large mass on her chest. First fostered by a volunteer with NVSR, she needed a home that did not have steps due to her arthritis. So she came to a second foster volunteer who had a home without steps. Shelly was a sweet girl, friendly and receptive to petting. Her foster providers tried to reduce her weight a bit hoping to help her arthritis, and they shared "Shelly care" during out-of-town trips. Shelly also took a liking to eating socks, which was discovered at the second foster’s home when she vomited them separately. We don’t know how long they were in her stomach!
Shelly's sarcoma continued to grow and fill with blood. Her x-rays and blood work were not encouraging for her future. Eventually she stopped eating and eliminating, and it became clear a decision needed to be made. Dale City Animal Hospital vets gave her foster providers information, compassion, and guidance in this difficult decision, along with the excellent care and attention they gave to Shelly.
Shelly was gently euthanized with her foster providers there with her right to the end. We wish we could have helped her earlier when she might have had a longer life. She captured our hearts and for that we are grateful. -- Sue Beckerdite and Karin Trice, Shelly's foster moms, April 2015
Shelly came to NVSR when her owner could no longer keep her in the assisted living facility where he resided. She was 13 years old with a very large mass on her chest. First fostered by a volunteer with NVSR, she needed a home that did not have steps due to her arthritis. So she came to a second foster volunteer who had a home without steps. Shelly was a sweet girl, friendly and receptive to petting. Her foster providers tried to reduce her weight a bit hoping to help her arthritis, and they shared "Shelly care" during out-of-town trips. Shelly also took a liking to eating socks, which was discovered at the second foster’s home when she vomited them separately. We don’t know how long they were in her stomach!
Shelly's sarcoma continued to grow and fill with blood. Her x-rays and blood work were not encouraging for her future. Eventually she stopped eating and eliminating, and it became clear a decision needed to be made. Dale City Animal Hospital vets gave her foster providers information, compassion, and guidance in this difficult decision, along with the excellent care and attention they gave to Shelly.
Shelly was gently euthanized with her foster providers there with her right to the end. We wish we could have helped her earlier when she might have had a longer life. She captured our hearts and for that we are grateful. -- Sue Beckerdite and Karin Trice, Shelly's foster moms, April 2015
Triscuit
In July of 2010 Melinda McKenzie Hall, emailed us that she had a foster dog that we should come and see. She said that we would fall in love with him, and she was so right. We found out within a few days that the baby gates could get put away, and "Triscuit" could have free run of the house (other than putting lids on all the trash cans). He has brought us so much happiness that it’s hard to put it into words. He loved to walk and until this past year, when his arthritis slowed him, we took four or five long walks a day. His uncle Willie decided to let him walk until Tricuit wanted to come home, they walked for two hours. I will miss coming home and see him waiting at the front window for me, and coming to bed to find him sleeping on my pillow.
We thank all of you at NVSR for what you did to help him and for bringing him into our lives. -- Steve and Sandy Silverman, July 2015
In July of 2010 Melinda McKenzie Hall, emailed us that she had a foster dog that we should come and see. She said that we would fall in love with him, and she was so right. We found out within a few days that the baby gates could get put away, and "Triscuit" could have free run of the house (other than putting lids on all the trash cans). He has brought us so much happiness that it’s hard to put it into words. He loved to walk and until this past year, when his arthritis slowed him, we took four or five long walks a day. His uncle Willie decided to let him walk until Tricuit wanted to come home, they walked for two hours. I will miss coming home and see him waiting at the front window for me, and coming to bed to find him sleeping on my pillow.
We thank all of you at NVSR for what you did to help him and for bringing him into our lives. -- Steve and Sandy Silverman, July 2015
Larado
We lost Larado, NVSR class of '09, today. He was more than 14 years old, and his arthritis was getting worse and worse. This all got dramatically worse the last two days, and the vet believed he likely had a stroke or other neurological problem.
'Tis always hard to part, but he had a loving family for the last 5 1/2 years of his life. We cannot imagine how bad his first nine years were before he came to NVSR. He never wagged his tail once for me or Kathy or other people, only occasionally for other dogs. He never barked once in 5 1/2 years. He was afraid, all the time, of everything. But we know he loved us, as he loved sleeping with us, and sitting on the couch between us. Some of you may remember that he was my constant companion through multiple surgeries and rounds of chemotherapy. I don't know how he knew I was sick, but he knew. Such a loyal little Larado.
We miss you pal. Give Tartan our love when you see him. -- John and Kathy Vollbrecht, April 2015
We lost Larado, NVSR class of '09, today. He was more than 14 years old, and his arthritis was getting worse and worse. This all got dramatically worse the last two days, and the vet believed he likely had a stroke or other neurological problem.
'Tis always hard to part, but he had a loving family for the last 5 1/2 years of his life. We cannot imagine how bad his first nine years were before he came to NVSR. He never wagged his tail once for me or Kathy or other people, only occasionally for other dogs. He never barked once in 5 1/2 years. He was afraid, all the time, of everything. But we know he loved us, as he loved sleeping with us, and sitting on the couch between us. Some of you may remember that he was my constant companion through multiple surgeries and rounds of chemotherapy. I don't know how he knew I was sick, but he knew. Such a loyal little Larado.
We miss you pal. Give Tartan our love when you see him. -- John and Kathy Vollbrecht, April 2015
Flynn
Thank you, NVSR, for sending us Flynn. We adopted him in August of 2005. He was our fifth Sheltie, and it was love at first sight. There are no words to describe the joy he brought into our lives. We lost him to congestive heart failure in May of this year (2014). I did the oil painting of him in the fall of 2013. It hangs in our den and every time I look at it my heart skips a beat. We miss him terribly. Every Sheltie we were privileged to have in our family was special, and we miss them all. Two of our Shelties came from local breeders and three, including Flynn, were rescues. It is a gift being able to provide a forever home. -- E. L. Smith, Jr., November 2014
Rocky
We adopted Rocky at the Northern Virginia Sheltie Rescue picnic in September 2012. That was one of the best days of our lives!!!!! The year before that, we had lost our first Sheltie, Brandy, at age 14.
After completing the application process and the home visit, we agreed to go to the picnic to meet Rocky. We are so grateful to Jenni Frock (Rocky’s foster mom) for taking such good care of Rocky. We met Rocky, and it was LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT. We say we “rescued” Rocky, but he really rescued us. We brought Rocky home with us that day and he changed our lives forever!!! We enjoyed every minute with our sweet little boy! He was so happy to just be with us. He also enjoyed the walks and all the hugs and kisses.
Our lives were turned upside down on September 2 when we found out Rocky had a cancerous tumor (hemangiosarcoma) at age 10. Two weeks later, we made the most difficult decision - to spare Rocky any future pain and discomfort by having him euthanized in our home. We held Rocky and loved him as he passed on to the Rainbow Bridge. We will see Rocky and Brandy again …
I love these pics of our Rocky boy … we sure loved that boy, but what he gave us cannot be captured in words or pictures. We were so lucky to have him the last two years of his life. We love you, Rocky.
-- Anne and Larry Hoffman, September 2014
We adopted Rocky at the Northern Virginia Sheltie Rescue picnic in September 2012. That was one of the best days of our lives!!!!! The year before that, we had lost our first Sheltie, Brandy, at age 14.
After completing the application process and the home visit, we agreed to go to the picnic to meet Rocky. We are so grateful to Jenni Frock (Rocky’s foster mom) for taking such good care of Rocky. We met Rocky, and it was LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT. We say we “rescued” Rocky, but he really rescued us. We brought Rocky home with us that day and he changed our lives forever!!! We enjoyed every minute with our sweet little boy! He was so happy to just be with us. He also enjoyed the walks and all the hugs and kisses.
Our lives were turned upside down on September 2 when we found out Rocky had a cancerous tumor (hemangiosarcoma) at age 10. Two weeks later, we made the most difficult decision - to spare Rocky any future pain and discomfort by having him euthanized in our home. We held Rocky and loved him as he passed on to the Rainbow Bridge. We will see Rocky and Brandy again …
I love these pics of our Rocky boy … we sure loved that boy, but what he gave us cannot be captured in words or pictures. We were so lucky to have him the last two years of his life. We love you, Rocky.
-- Anne and Larry Hoffman, September 2014
Topper
Topper (NVSR 2010) crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 30 September after a short battle with cancer. He was a senior dog when we adopted him, 12 years old, and he would have been 16 in two months. We were a little unsure about adopting a senior dog, not to mention we already had two NVSR dogs living with us. But Topper gave us four amazing years and showed us that a warm home and a caring family is really all a dog asks for. He was a gift, and we know how hard it was for his family to give him up. As they told us and we agree, Topper was a special guy with so much fun and happiness inside him.
Topper truly brought joy and laughter everywhere he went. He was proud and independent, a dog's dog, yet always wanting to be near, whether it was under my husband’s office desk while he was working or following me from room to room as I moved through the house during the weekend. He loved to sleep on our shoes and had an amazing internal clock about feeding time, which we could not ignore thanks to his vocal reminders. He was one of a kind and irreplaceable. We cannot express how much we will miss Topper. He will always have a special place in our hearts.
Thank you to Topper’s family for having the courage to surrender him to NVSR and thank you to NVSR for bringing Topper and us together. We encourage others to take a chance on a senior dog as it is a decision they will not regret. Topper is proof of that, and we are so lucky to have had him in our lives. -- Mike and Ursula Stearns, October 2014
Topper (NVSR 2010) crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 30 September after a short battle with cancer. He was a senior dog when we adopted him, 12 years old, and he would have been 16 in two months. We were a little unsure about adopting a senior dog, not to mention we already had two NVSR dogs living with us. But Topper gave us four amazing years and showed us that a warm home and a caring family is really all a dog asks for. He was a gift, and we know how hard it was for his family to give him up. As they told us and we agree, Topper was a special guy with so much fun and happiness inside him.
Topper truly brought joy and laughter everywhere he went. He was proud and independent, a dog's dog, yet always wanting to be near, whether it was under my husband’s office desk while he was working or following me from room to room as I moved through the house during the weekend. He loved to sleep on our shoes and had an amazing internal clock about feeding time, which we could not ignore thanks to his vocal reminders. He was one of a kind and irreplaceable. We cannot express how much we will miss Topper. He will always have a special place in our hearts.
Thank you to Topper’s family for having the courage to surrender him to NVSR and thank you to NVSR for bringing Topper and us together. We encourage others to take a chance on a senior dog as it is a decision they will not regret. Topper is proof of that, and we are so lucky to have had him in our lives. -- Mike and Ursula Stearns, October 2014
Hope (rear) and the gang ... and at the wedding.
Hope
When Kim and I returned from picking up Hope Elsie Lowell (known formerly as Sallie) on January 15, 2011, our lives changed forever. Although we had both had adopted dogs before, Hope was the first dog that we had adopted together.
To begin with, Hope was very shy and nervous. I remember taking her into our back yard that first night, and she was constantly looking up at me as if wondering who I was and what I was expecting of her. Kim and I were determined that Hope, who had experienced a rough life before being fostered by Sharon and Dave Daussin, would receive our love and devotion in an effort to make her remaining life as comfortable and joyous as possible.
As the days became weeks and then months, that shy, nervous girl who would peek around the corner of the settee at us before running to hide behind it, became a dog that loved nothing better than to be held in our arms and told how pretty she was.
Everyone who met Hope fell in love with her, and she became an integral part of our family. She was invited to spend Thanksgiving at her grandmother’s house in Reston, and when Kim and I married in January 2012, we insisted that Hope (and Lindy) both be part of the wedding party. When we moved house to Clifton a short time later, her grandparents announced that Hope was welcome to stay with them for the short period between houses, but Kim and I would have to find a hotel.
When we had guests, Hope went from person to person and softly nudged each with her nose asking for attention. Hope became a fun-loving dog who loved to run and play, and would greet people at the door with excitement and joy.
Sadly an aggressive persistent cancer took hold of Hope and she was diagnosed with hypoglycemia, which meant feedings every four hours and doses of honey when she had a seizure. Kim and I bought hundreds of packets of honey and positioned them strategically around the house so we always had some close at hand. Our dogsitter who comes to look in on our dogs mid-day was trained in how to handle a seizure. Kim and I took Lindy to the Sheltie Picnic last month, but Hope was too ill to make the trip; her grandparents took care of her.
Those last two days her health deteriorated even further, and she was telling us it was time to let her go. After discussions among ourselves, our parents, and vet we determined that it would be selfish to let her suffer, and we made the difficult, heartbreaking decision to say goodbye. As she slipped away we held her in our arms and told her that she would see friends Gossip and Orca who were waiting to greet her, and I promised her that one day she and I would be reunited on the other side of the Bridge. We both miss Hope so much and treasure every moment we shared with her. -- Darren Harrison, October 2014
When Kim and I returned from picking up Hope Elsie Lowell (known formerly as Sallie) on January 15, 2011, our lives changed forever. Although we had both had adopted dogs before, Hope was the first dog that we had adopted together.
To begin with, Hope was very shy and nervous. I remember taking her into our back yard that first night, and she was constantly looking up at me as if wondering who I was and what I was expecting of her. Kim and I were determined that Hope, who had experienced a rough life before being fostered by Sharon and Dave Daussin, would receive our love and devotion in an effort to make her remaining life as comfortable and joyous as possible.
As the days became weeks and then months, that shy, nervous girl who would peek around the corner of the settee at us before running to hide behind it, became a dog that loved nothing better than to be held in our arms and told how pretty she was.
Everyone who met Hope fell in love with her, and she became an integral part of our family. She was invited to spend Thanksgiving at her grandmother’s house in Reston, and when Kim and I married in January 2012, we insisted that Hope (and Lindy) both be part of the wedding party. When we moved house to Clifton a short time later, her grandparents announced that Hope was welcome to stay with them for the short period between houses, but Kim and I would have to find a hotel.
When we had guests, Hope went from person to person and softly nudged each with her nose asking for attention. Hope became a fun-loving dog who loved to run and play, and would greet people at the door with excitement and joy.
Sadly an aggressive persistent cancer took hold of Hope and she was diagnosed with hypoglycemia, which meant feedings every four hours and doses of honey when she had a seizure. Kim and I bought hundreds of packets of honey and positioned them strategically around the house so we always had some close at hand. Our dogsitter who comes to look in on our dogs mid-day was trained in how to handle a seizure. Kim and I took Lindy to the Sheltie Picnic last month, but Hope was too ill to make the trip; her grandparents took care of her.
Those last two days her health deteriorated even further, and she was telling us it was time to let her go. After discussions among ourselves, our parents, and vet we determined that it would be selfish to let her suffer, and we made the difficult, heartbreaking decision to say goodbye. As she slipped away we held her in our arms and told her that she would see friends Gossip and Orca who were waiting to greet her, and I promised her that one day she and I would be reunited on the other side of the Bridge. We both miss Hope so much and treasure every moment we shared with her. -- Darren Harrison, October 2014
Simeon enjoying the spring garden and a beautiful sunrise in the mountains.
Simeon
Our dear sweet Simeon left us yesterday. He would have been 16 in October. We adopted him in September 2005 (a month short of his turning 7); he came to NVSR as the fallout from a divorce. We were blessed to have him 9 years to the day! Couldn't have asked for a better dog, friend, family member, and walking buddy until his arthritis stopped him - we used to walk 2-5 miles every morning. He was a great representative of Shelties at many NVSR events and wherever he went. He enjoyed (i.e., barked at) squirrels, reflected light, white tails of jets in the sky; he also liked sleeping on the AC vents in the summertime. And oh, how he loved food, but maintained a good weight after losing 10 pounds after intake. After eating his bowl of food, he would lap some water, lick his bowl, lap some more water, lick his bowl...who needed a dishwasher? After one mailman gave him treats, Simeon thought all mail trucks were loaded with food. He was a very optimistic dog. He will be greatly missed but - "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." I am so glad that Simeon was a part of our lives for the time we had with him. -- Joyce and Wade Miller, September 2014
Our dear sweet Simeon left us yesterday. He would have been 16 in October. We adopted him in September 2005 (a month short of his turning 7); he came to NVSR as the fallout from a divorce. We were blessed to have him 9 years to the day! Couldn't have asked for a better dog, friend, family member, and walking buddy until his arthritis stopped him - we used to walk 2-5 miles every morning. He was a great representative of Shelties at many NVSR events and wherever he went. He enjoyed (i.e., barked at) squirrels, reflected light, white tails of jets in the sky; he also liked sleeping on the AC vents in the summertime. And oh, how he loved food, but maintained a good weight after losing 10 pounds after intake. After eating his bowl of food, he would lap some water, lick his bowl, lap some more water, lick his bowl...who needed a dishwasher? After one mailman gave him treats, Simeon thought all mail trucks were loaded with food. He was a very optimistic dog. He will be greatly missed but - "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." I am so glad that Simeon was a part of our lives for the time we had with him. -- Joyce and Wade Miller, September 2014
Dulcie in her last year and as a younger dog hiding during a thunderstorm.
Dulcie
Dulcie, my beautiful "Sheltie wannabe," came to me through NVSR. A 3-year old stray when the Fairfax shelter found her, they insisted she was a Sheltie, and NVSR took her in. She was obviously a border collie mix, probably with akita or husky. I named her Dulcie for her very sweet nature. She lived with us for nine years, bringing her sweet personality into our home life with everything she did. She welcomed nearly 70 foster dogs, showing them where things are and how we do things, comforting their uncertainty, and helping them gain confidence.
Dulcie was always ready to meet new people or see a new place - a hike, a visit to an outdoor cafe, a trip to parents' home, a car ride to see the fall color in the mountains, a visit to friends, even to the vet clinic where she was a favorite. She had a wonderful thick, soft black and white coat, which kept her warm in the winter. She loved to stay out in the snow, sleeping for hours with snow drifting over her.
As Dulcie aged, it became difficult for her to go for long walks, so she took short walks in the neighborhood, patrolled the backyard, played with the resident and foster dogs, and continued her car rides. She always participated in the family barkfests if a band of crows flew over the house or the UPS truck drove by.
I have been so incredibly lucky to have lived with this beautiful creature who brought so much to our home. Rest well, dear Dulcie; we miss you. -- Martha Heisel, August 2014
Dulcie, my beautiful "Sheltie wannabe," came to me through NVSR. A 3-year old stray when the Fairfax shelter found her, they insisted she was a Sheltie, and NVSR took her in. She was obviously a border collie mix, probably with akita or husky. I named her Dulcie for her very sweet nature. She lived with us for nine years, bringing her sweet personality into our home life with everything she did. She welcomed nearly 70 foster dogs, showing them where things are and how we do things, comforting their uncertainty, and helping them gain confidence.
Dulcie was always ready to meet new people or see a new place - a hike, a visit to an outdoor cafe, a trip to parents' home, a car ride to see the fall color in the mountains, a visit to friends, even to the vet clinic where she was a favorite. She had a wonderful thick, soft black and white coat, which kept her warm in the winter. She loved to stay out in the snow, sleeping for hours with snow drifting over her.
As Dulcie aged, it became difficult for her to go for long walks, so she took short walks in the neighborhood, patrolled the backyard, played with the resident and foster dogs, and continued her car rides. She always participated in the family barkfests if a band of crows flew over the house or the UPS truck drove by.
I have been so incredibly lucky to have lived with this beautiful creature who brought so much to our home. Rest well, dear Dulcie; we miss you. -- Martha Heisel, August 2014
Joey
Joey came into our lives after we started looking at rescue dog websites. We were semi-hooked when we checked Sheltie Haven website in 1998 and saw a Sheltie: "Joey: Neutered sable and white male, 2 years old and very energetic. He is fine with children and other dogs and cats. He has a very bouncy personality and will be best in a home where he gets lots of exercise.”
We met Joey spring 1999, and although he was underweight, we couldn’t resist his energy and loving spirit. He had been debarked, but that never stopped him from barking his hoarse bark. We discovered the truth in his description! He “bounced” straight up as high as the door knobs to greet visitors, and he would go into energetic spurts and do a “dog on the run” exercise running up and down three flights at full speed. Since he was so skinny, he had the nickname “Bag of Bones” along with his own song! He always LOVED watching and guarding the neighborhood on his “box,” barking at the UPS man or strangers. No one got by without his approval! We affectionately called him “Spy Dog” because he saw ALL, but wasn’t talking.
To take advantage of his energy and enthusiasm we enrolled Joey in obedience and then agility classes. In obedience class he learned hand signals for the basic commands, but he couldn't contain his “special” bark or sit still for 3 minutes! He really enjoyed agility and kept his humans moving. He took the top place in his class! However, he never mastered the weave poles. Instead he preferred chasing greyhounds in the dog park to maintain his Sheltie physique. At the Alexandria Animal Welfare League Canine Games in 2001, he won two 1st place medals. After retiring from athletics, Joey passed the tests as a service dog and did community service with Fairfax County’s Pets on Wheels. Later, his services were needed for Mary’s parents, giving them Sheltie hugs and kisses, while they gave him treats and afternoon walks. Snow was another favorite for Joey, and he loved chasing snow balls. Even as he got older he would jump in the air and bark at us to throw them. Joey especially enjoyed the blizzard of 2010, and he proudly stood atop Mt. Diehl.
Joey was a great Sheltie ambassador. Children called him “Lassie” and some had never seen or petted a dog. He especially loved his “belly rubs” and earned another nickname as a “TLC Sponge.” His favorite job was to fetch slippers. It took 10 minutes to teach him to bring a slipper up the steps and to the refrigerator for a treat (a small, juicy carrot). Later, he would fetch both slippers and place them by the refrigerator.
As he approached 15 years old he lost his hearing, but we could still communicate with him by hand signals. Joey resumed his caregiving role when Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer, providing hugs and cuddling to speed up her recovery. At 16 he went to the NVSR picnic and the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk, enjoying the parade in his “carriage.” He celebrated his 17th birthday at the NVSR picnic and especially enjoyed getting his portrait taken. After New Year 2014, Joey got weaker and began his journey to Rainbow Bridge. Not even his favorite mint chip ice cream was interesting. Joey was tired, but watched the neighborhood one last time before telling his humans the time had come to cross the Bridge.
We humans celebrate your life, Joey! You were not only a beautiful Shetland Sheepdog, but a faithful, loving, devoted, and dignified companion. You brought great happiness and joy to us and to many others whose lives you touched. EVERYONE loved you Joey and we’ll miss you dearly, but we have your pictures and memories to keep until we meet you in the future at the end of the Rainbow Bridge! THANK YOU for the time you shared with us! -- Mary and Bob Klein
PS - Joey chose February to cross Rainbow Bridge, and he was the February pin-up for the Sheltie Haven 2002 calendar.
Joey came into our lives after we started looking at rescue dog websites. We were semi-hooked when we checked Sheltie Haven website in 1998 and saw a Sheltie: "Joey: Neutered sable and white male, 2 years old and very energetic. He is fine with children and other dogs and cats. He has a very bouncy personality and will be best in a home where he gets lots of exercise.”
We met Joey spring 1999, and although he was underweight, we couldn’t resist his energy and loving spirit. He had been debarked, but that never stopped him from barking his hoarse bark. We discovered the truth in his description! He “bounced” straight up as high as the door knobs to greet visitors, and he would go into energetic spurts and do a “dog on the run” exercise running up and down three flights at full speed. Since he was so skinny, he had the nickname “Bag of Bones” along with his own song! He always LOVED watching and guarding the neighborhood on his “box,” barking at the UPS man or strangers. No one got by without his approval! We affectionately called him “Spy Dog” because he saw ALL, but wasn’t talking.
To take advantage of his energy and enthusiasm we enrolled Joey in obedience and then agility classes. In obedience class he learned hand signals for the basic commands, but he couldn't contain his “special” bark or sit still for 3 minutes! He really enjoyed agility and kept his humans moving. He took the top place in his class! However, he never mastered the weave poles. Instead he preferred chasing greyhounds in the dog park to maintain his Sheltie physique. At the Alexandria Animal Welfare League Canine Games in 2001, he won two 1st place medals. After retiring from athletics, Joey passed the tests as a service dog and did community service with Fairfax County’s Pets on Wheels. Later, his services were needed for Mary’s parents, giving them Sheltie hugs and kisses, while they gave him treats and afternoon walks. Snow was another favorite for Joey, and he loved chasing snow balls. Even as he got older he would jump in the air and bark at us to throw them. Joey especially enjoyed the blizzard of 2010, and he proudly stood atop Mt. Diehl.
Joey was a great Sheltie ambassador. Children called him “Lassie” and some had never seen or petted a dog. He especially loved his “belly rubs” and earned another nickname as a “TLC Sponge.” His favorite job was to fetch slippers. It took 10 minutes to teach him to bring a slipper up the steps and to the refrigerator for a treat (a small, juicy carrot). Later, he would fetch both slippers and place them by the refrigerator.
As he approached 15 years old he lost his hearing, but we could still communicate with him by hand signals. Joey resumed his caregiving role when Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer, providing hugs and cuddling to speed up her recovery. At 16 he went to the NVSR picnic and the Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk, enjoying the parade in his “carriage.” He celebrated his 17th birthday at the NVSR picnic and especially enjoyed getting his portrait taken. After New Year 2014, Joey got weaker and began his journey to Rainbow Bridge. Not even his favorite mint chip ice cream was interesting. Joey was tired, but watched the neighborhood one last time before telling his humans the time had come to cross the Bridge.
We humans celebrate your life, Joey! You were not only a beautiful Shetland Sheepdog, but a faithful, loving, devoted, and dignified companion. You brought great happiness and joy to us and to many others whose lives you touched. EVERYONE loved you Joey and we’ll miss you dearly, but we have your pictures and memories to keep until we meet you in the future at the end of the Rainbow Bridge! THANK YOU for the time you shared with us! -- Mary and Bob Klein
PS - Joey chose February to cross Rainbow Bridge, and he was the February pin-up for the Sheltie Haven 2002 calendar.
Buddy
With broken hearts we say goodbye to our dear Buddy. The time was too short. Dear Buddy had been fighting bouts of colitis. With the help of his vet and the animal hospital we had been working on finding a treatment. On Sunday, 13 October, our Buddy stopped eating, and we knew something was terribly wrong and immediately took him to the hospital. At 1:30 in the morning they called to tell us he had gone into cardiac arrest. We told them to do all they could and we were on our way. Buddy passed before we got to the hospital. The doctor wheeled him in for us to say goodbye. Tearfully we hugged and kissed him. We never expected this outcome. The doctor said after further examination it appeared Buddy had colon cancer, and they believe it spread to his brain. Through all of this, Buddy continued to be the most loving and cuddly dog we have ever known.
Buddy’s memory will stay with us always. His vet said he was one of a kind. Everyone loved him. He knew how to win over the human hearts. Buddy was so gentle with children, and they loved him. Every morning he would get into bed for his special cuddle time. Buddy’s warmth and love will be deeply missed. Brother Oreo is missing his Buddy. It will be an adjustment for all of us.
Thank you to NVSR for allowing Buddy and Oreo into our lives. Buddy is buried at Highview Memorial Gardens Pet cemetery in Fallston, MD. He was laid to rest next to our beloved sheltie, Prince Reggie. We had placed on the stone the words “Everybody’s Buddy,” because he truly was. Buddy loved every human he met. -- Jon & Donna Withrow
With broken hearts we say goodbye to our dear Buddy. The time was too short. Dear Buddy had been fighting bouts of colitis. With the help of his vet and the animal hospital we had been working on finding a treatment. On Sunday, 13 October, our Buddy stopped eating, and we knew something was terribly wrong and immediately took him to the hospital. At 1:30 in the morning they called to tell us he had gone into cardiac arrest. We told them to do all they could and we were on our way. Buddy passed before we got to the hospital. The doctor wheeled him in for us to say goodbye. Tearfully we hugged and kissed him. We never expected this outcome. The doctor said after further examination it appeared Buddy had colon cancer, and they believe it spread to his brain. Through all of this, Buddy continued to be the most loving and cuddly dog we have ever known.
Buddy’s memory will stay with us always. His vet said he was one of a kind. Everyone loved him. He knew how to win over the human hearts. Buddy was so gentle with children, and they loved him. Every morning he would get into bed for his special cuddle time. Buddy’s warmth and love will be deeply missed. Brother Oreo is missing his Buddy. It will be an adjustment for all of us.
Thank you to NVSR for allowing Buddy and Oreo into our lives. Buddy is buried at Highview Memorial Gardens Pet cemetery in Fallston, MD. He was laid to rest next to our beloved sheltie, Prince Reggie. We had placed on the stone the words “Everybody’s Buddy,” because he truly was. Buddy loved every human he met. -- Jon & Donna Withrow
Digby
Digby was adopted at the age of 10 because we believed even older dogs need homes. Sadly, he was with us only three years, but they were the best three years of my life and my son’s life. Not a day went by when he didn’t cheer us up, share his love, and seek us out.
Digby loved playing with his toys and rubbing his face down the Ottoman (now known as the “Napkin”) after his meals. Digby loved nothing more than just being with “his people.” Each day he’d conduct a search to find one of us and lie quietly while we worked. And, I never went to the bathroom alone!
Our "spa days" were tiring for me, but Digby was the most patient recipient, lying still for an hour after the bath for me to dry and brush him out. I trimmed his sweet little paws (that smelled like Frito Corn Chips - can you believe it?) about once every three weeks, and then he’d wait ever so patiently for me to finish so we could get down to the real business of petting and loving.
Digby strutted through our home for three years looking like a Prince, and that’s what we lovingly called him: Prince Digby. He was the King of My Heart, and I will miss him like no other. God Bless you, Digby, for gracing our lives as long as you could. -- Kathy Sandridge
Digby was adopted at the age of 10 because we believed even older dogs need homes. Sadly, he was with us only three years, but they were the best three years of my life and my son’s life. Not a day went by when he didn’t cheer us up, share his love, and seek us out.
Digby loved playing with his toys and rubbing his face down the Ottoman (now known as the “Napkin”) after his meals. Digby loved nothing more than just being with “his people.” Each day he’d conduct a search to find one of us and lie quietly while we worked. And, I never went to the bathroom alone!
Our "spa days" were tiring for me, but Digby was the most patient recipient, lying still for an hour after the bath for me to dry and brush him out. I trimmed his sweet little paws (that smelled like Frito Corn Chips - can you believe it?) about once every three weeks, and then he’d wait ever so patiently for me to finish so we could get down to the real business of petting and loving.
Digby strutted through our home for three years looking like a Prince, and that’s what we lovingly called him: Prince Digby. He was the King of My Heart, and I will miss him like no other. God Bless you, Digby, for gracing our lives as long as you could. -- Kathy Sandridge
Rainbow Road
By: Christian L. Sandridge
Dearest and most trusted friend,
I’m sorry I could not be there in the end,
Of regrets I have but one,
That our journey together had only just begun.
It has been hard without you,
But I will not say goodbye,
Because when I think of you I will try,
To remember that this is simply an ode,
That I will see you again when I meet you,
On the rainbow road.
There we will frolic and we will play,
Knowing no difference between night and day,
Together in the eternal sun,
Knowing our future together has just begun,
You and I will feel no pain,
No suffering,
No misery,
On that eternal plain.
But for now I weep in sorrow,
Hoping all will be better for both of us come tomorrow.
I love you dearly and always will,
To think of our time together I look upon fondly still,
I look to the sky up above,
And still I feel our shared endless love,
Know that I wish you well,
And I am glad you have a happy place to dwell,
Again I’m sorry I was not with you in the end,
But now god has a new man’s best friend.
In memory of Digby Sandridge
You will always be the best of friends and the greatest of family
I love you and miss you so much
By: Christian L. Sandridge
Dearest and most trusted friend,
I’m sorry I could not be there in the end,
Of regrets I have but one,
That our journey together had only just begun.
It has been hard without you,
But I will not say goodbye,
Because when I think of you I will try,
To remember that this is simply an ode,
That I will see you again when I meet you,
On the rainbow road.
There we will frolic and we will play,
Knowing no difference between night and day,
Together in the eternal sun,
Knowing our future together has just begun,
You and I will feel no pain,
No suffering,
No misery,
On that eternal plain.
But for now I weep in sorrow,
Hoping all will be better for both of us come tomorrow.
I love you dearly and always will,
To think of our time together I look upon fondly still,
I look to the sky up above,
And still I feel our shared endless love,
Know that I wish you well,
And I am glad you have a happy place to dwell,
Again I’m sorry I was not with you in the end,
But now god has a new man’s best friend.
In memory of Digby Sandridge
You will always be the best of friends and the greatest of family
I love you and miss you so much
Daisy
NVSR volunteers will remember "Daisy 2" from our annual picnics where she impressed the crowd with her Frisbee skills--impressive mainly because she had only one rear leg! Daisy's short life of only 8 years was actually a "second chance," which didn't begin until after she was signed over to her vet for euthanasia, at barely over one year of age, by a tearful former owner who couldn't afford to fix her broken leg. Her vet recommended calling rescue, which the owner did. Not wishing to spare any expense, especially considering her young age, NVSR funded two major surgeries first attempted, both of which failed to hold the badly damaged leg together. It was finally decided to amputate her leg.
After 3 months of intensive rehabilitation exercises following multiple surgeries, Daisy had formed such a bond with her foster family that they could not let her go. They became what we call "foster flunkies." Daisy was a very happy dog who embraced life, helped our cause at fundraising activities, and even shared her own confidence in human kindness with other foster dogs as they came through her mom's care. Sadly, in early 2013 she developed Canine Addison's Disease, which is eventually fatal, even with expensive treatment.
Daisy departed for the Rainbow Bridge at the end of July 2013, after 7 wonderful years with her new family. When the sad day was announced to all our volunteers, her foster mom said, "I want to be buried with a Frisbee, in case there are none where she is now. Considering how well Daisy played the game with only 3 legs, I look forward to seeing her play with all 4 when we get together on the other side of the River." -- Mary Ellen Jones
NVSR volunteers will remember "Daisy 2" from our annual picnics where she impressed the crowd with her Frisbee skills--impressive mainly because she had only one rear leg! Daisy's short life of only 8 years was actually a "second chance," which didn't begin until after she was signed over to her vet for euthanasia, at barely over one year of age, by a tearful former owner who couldn't afford to fix her broken leg. Her vet recommended calling rescue, which the owner did. Not wishing to spare any expense, especially considering her young age, NVSR funded two major surgeries first attempted, both of which failed to hold the badly damaged leg together. It was finally decided to amputate her leg.
After 3 months of intensive rehabilitation exercises following multiple surgeries, Daisy had formed such a bond with her foster family that they could not let her go. They became what we call "foster flunkies." Daisy was a very happy dog who embraced life, helped our cause at fundraising activities, and even shared her own confidence in human kindness with other foster dogs as they came through her mom's care. Sadly, in early 2013 she developed Canine Addison's Disease, which is eventually fatal, even with expensive treatment.
Daisy departed for the Rainbow Bridge at the end of July 2013, after 7 wonderful years with her new family. When the sad day was announced to all our volunteers, her foster mom said, "I want to be buried with a Frisbee, in case there are none where she is now. Considering how well Daisy played the game with only 3 legs, I look forward to seeing her play with all 4 when we get together on the other side of the River." -- Mary Ellen Jones
Jackpot
Our dear Jackpot (adopted in '05 at 3 1/2 years young) had as many adorable quirks as he had nicknames. When we adopted him, we were told he would not walk on a leash ... that was partly true. He would not walk away from our house, but he would gladly trot back to the house. I guess that was his way of making it known very early that he wanted to stay with us. Things out of place or new things threw him for a loop. He would bark at grocery bags, or a guest's coat hanging on a chair. After sniffing and checking it out, he would typically move on. Jackpot even won the hotdog contest at one of NVSR's annual picnics because he really didn't know what to do with the hotdog - he was on a special diet due to his skin allergies.
When we adopted him, Jackpot didn't know how to play with toys. We were almost ready to give up, when one day he started playing with a toy skunk. We were stunned, but from then on he played when HE wanted to. Most of all, that little mess loved chasing cars along the fence behind our house. That was his greatest love in life, other than us and his extended family. Boy, when he was healthy he would chase and bark at cars for hours, racing down the back steps, jumping off the deck, and flying to the fence. We worried that it might bother the neighbors, but his barks were muted by the traffic and he just loved it so much. We had to remove river rock and replace it with mulch and cedar, and his path became very worn, including a path through the grassy areas. He even made raking leaves fun as he would join us for a brief visit and then go back to his job, chasing cars, while we finished ours.
A stoic, classy fellow, Jackpot was loved by everyone who met him. You just couldn't help it ... even if you weren't a dog person. He accompanied us on visits to friends' houses, jumping up on the closest couch and staying there throughout the visit. Lying there with his front legs crossed, he looked very regal.
Jackpot went to the Rainbow Bridge on February 10, 2014. Jackpot, we still feel you pawing at us wanting more rubbing and loving. Our dear friend, you will be forever in our hearts. Thank you, NVSR, for allowing Jackpot to enter our lives and be a member of our family. -- Donna Westbrook and Leigh Strawderman
Our dear Jackpot (adopted in '05 at 3 1/2 years young) had as many adorable quirks as he had nicknames. When we adopted him, we were told he would not walk on a leash ... that was partly true. He would not walk away from our house, but he would gladly trot back to the house. I guess that was his way of making it known very early that he wanted to stay with us. Things out of place or new things threw him for a loop. He would bark at grocery bags, or a guest's coat hanging on a chair. After sniffing and checking it out, he would typically move on. Jackpot even won the hotdog contest at one of NVSR's annual picnics because he really didn't know what to do with the hotdog - he was on a special diet due to his skin allergies.
When we adopted him, Jackpot didn't know how to play with toys. We were almost ready to give up, when one day he started playing with a toy skunk. We were stunned, but from then on he played when HE wanted to. Most of all, that little mess loved chasing cars along the fence behind our house. That was his greatest love in life, other than us and his extended family. Boy, when he was healthy he would chase and bark at cars for hours, racing down the back steps, jumping off the deck, and flying to the fence. We worried that it might bother the neighbors, but his barks were muted by the traffic and he just loved it so much. We had to remove river rock and replace it with mulch and cedar, and his path became very worn, including a path through the grassy areas. He even made raking leaves fun as he would join us for a brief visit and then go back to his job, chasing cars, while we finished ours.
A stoic, classy fellow, Jackpot was loved by everyone who met him. You just couldn't help it ... even if you weren't a dog person. He accompanied us on visits to friends' houses, jumping up on the closest couch and staying there throughout the visit. Lying there with his front legs crossed, he looked very regal.
Jackpot went to the Rainbow Bridge on February 10, 2014. Jackpot, we still feel you pawing at us wanting more rubbing and loving. Our dear friend, you will be forever in our hearts. Thank you, NVSR, for allowing Jackpot to enter our lives and be a member of our family. -- Donna Westbrook and Leigh Strawderman