Giving Thanks and a Holiday Rescue Story

Gratitude

My dog Stella is the picture of contentment resting in front of the fire this morning, with her arm around her favorite toy.  Dogs live in the moment and appreciate simple things. 

These are just two of the many aspects of “dog nature” that make life with dogs so inspirational. In my observation, dogs are very patient with us, and each other.  They are endlessly forgiving of our mistakes, and of course, unbridled in their joy when they see a friend or engage in play.  Living with and learning from dogs is a joy and has made me a better person.  And then, there are the health benefits.  Dogs get us outside, help us appreciate nature, encourage us to exercise and lower our blood pressure!  I am so thankful for dogs in my life.

I am also grateful for the compassion and dedication of the dog loving community reading this post.  There couldn’t be a better environment for a dog trainer. I am blessed to interface daily with people who give their dogs a loving home, and a fulfilled dog-life with lots of activity, adventure, large space running, and gentle coaching to help them live politely among humans.  Allow me to highlight a story that illustrates such kindness and generosity that it inspired this post, and for me, has filled this holiday with awe and gratitude.

A Holiday Rescue Story

Just a few days ago, Carole (Willow’s guardian – Tiny Dog Social) was leaving an appointment in Everett early in the morning when she saw movement in a potted landscaping plant.  She was in the middle of a parking structure with concrete in all directions, so this was quite surprising.  Closer inspection revealed an emaciated dog, hiding in the plant, cowering and shivering in the cold.  Though frightened and skittish, Carole was able to gain a little bit of trust by feeding it some restaurant leftovers she happened to have in her car.  With patience, she was able to pick up this literal bag of bones and put it in her car where it promptly fell asleep in the warmth and safety of its new environment.

Carole took the dog immediately to the vet.  The technician reported that the stray, now named “Everett”, seemed so happy to be cared for that he leaned against her as she bathed him, relieving him of many fleas.  Cleaned up and dewormed, Everett has spent the last few days gaining strength and trust in Carole’s home.  He’s affectionate and is making a good effort to eliminate outside though he clearly prefers to be inside where it’s warm.

Caring for a hungry little orphan like this is intense!  Everett’s refeeding regimen includes small amounts of special food every two hours.  He’s quite needy emotionally as well, as you can imagine.  To Carole it feels like a surprise baby just dropped into her life!  Fortunately, Carole’s neighbor has already stepped forward to help with veterinary bills. In a month or so, there will be some flesh on these bones, and he will be on his way back to full health.  Once neutered, he will be ready for adoption.  I can picture him lying on a soft bed, next to a warm fire, with his arm around his favorite toy, cared for and loved forever. 

It Takes a Village

Please consider helping Carole and Everett by volunteering for a short dog-sitting shift sometime between now and mid-December. He’s super easy to watch, cautious but not difficult to win over. Be forewarned – you may fall in love.  If you can donate just two hours of your time, please email 7cedarsdogtraining@gmail.com with the subject line Everett’s Rescue Party.  We are looking for at least 10 people who, collectively, could give Carole an occasional break to touch base with her regular life while keeping Everett feeling secure. We can make a schedule.   If you are interested in adopting Everett, or getting updates about his progress, please email me or Carole at giancola@whidbey.com