Sheree was a senior puppymill rescue Maltepoo we saw online. When we looked at her face, we knew she belonged with us. Before adopting her, we were told she had had mammary tumors, was blind and had congestive heart failure. She was also treated for heartworms at her age. It did not make a difference to us; we wanted to adopt her, which we did on October 31st, 2004.

She was unique and she had a lot of personality. She quickly became my mini Schnoodle Silky's best friend. Many times, I saw Silky, now an angel, bring Sheree back to the house from the yard, by rubbing her nose to Sheree's and guide her. They would curl together in a dog bed and snooze. Sheree enjoyed following Silky around as she realized that Silky was her eyes.

After a few months with us, her hard life and health issues left their mark. Sheree crossed the bridge on February 19, 2005. Although she was with us only a short 3 1/2 months, she had a lasting impact on our lives. We deeply loved her and still dearly miss her.

The Gift of Rescue

My job is to assist God's creatures
I was born with the need to fulfill their needs
I take in new family members without plan, thought or selection
I have bought dog food with my last dime
I have patted a mangy head with a bare hand
I have hugged someone vicious and afraid
I have fallen in love a thousand times
And I have cried into the fur of a lifeless body
I have animal friends and friends who have animal friends
I don't often use the word "pet"
I notice those lost at the road side
And my heart aches
I will hand raise a field mouse
And make friends with a vulture
I know of no creature unworthy of my time
I want to live forever if there aren't animals in Heaven
But I believe there are.

Why would God make something so perfect and leave it behind?
We may be master of the animals,
But the animals have mastered themselves
Something people still haven't learned
War and abuse make me hurt for the world
But a rescue that makes the news gives me hope for humankind
We are a quiet but determined army
And making a difference every day
There is nothing more necessary than warming an orphan
Nothing more rewarding than saving a life
No higher recognition than watching them thrive
There is no greater joy than seeing a baby play
When only days ago, was too weak to eat
I Am An Animal Rescuer
My work is never done
My home is never quiet
My wallet is always empty
But my heart is always full
In the game of life, I have already won.

Dedicated to our local hero rescuers

February 2010 Issue of the City+Country Pets magazine