Happy Tails

“Hope”

by Barbara McGillicuddy

In late July 2005, after many pleas from people on the message board, Kimmi came to my attention.  She was located in Levy County Florida, which is on the west side of Gainesville.  This is a 2.5 hour drive from where I live.  We did indeed drive out to pick her up.  She was simply pitiful.  I have never, ever seen so many fleas on one animal.  In each area she sat down in, she would leave behind a puddle of black flea dirt.  She would not raise her head to even look at me.  We noticed right away that she had many tumors.  Nonetheless, we loaded he and another little Catahoula girl up and drove home.  The next day I had her at the vet's office and was told she had Osteosarcoma that had metastisized throughout her body.  The vet heard the congestion from the cancer in Kimmi's lungs and said she was quite sure it had spread to her lungs and spleen as well.  Hope was given two weeks to live and I was told I should put her down right away to avoid any undue pain.  I took three deep breaths and prayed, asking Creator what to do about his poor being?  I looked deep into her big brown eyes, even though she averted her gaze at all costs, and I knew I had to win her over before she left this Earth.  Humankind had something to prove to this very sad and pitiful soul.  I got thirty days worth of Rimadyl and gave her double the dosage in order to keep her pain free.  She took the medication well and had no side effects so I continued this treatment.  I came back to the message board and told everyone the findings.  I asked for everyone to help me think of a name for her, as Kimmi did not fit.  Janeen came up with Hope.  Yes, that is perfect for this dog.  Hope it is!  After a month and a half passed, she finally looked up at me.  At two months, she finally wagged her tail.  It is now nine months later, and she is still doing well.  She follows me wherever I go.  She tolerates little puppies coming and licking her in the face.  She is hopelessly incontinent, so I have "her" rug under her constantly.  Seraphim, the kitty sits with her often.

Only God knows how long she will stay?  But, I am happy to report, Humankind has finally proven worthy of her doggy love.