After moving three times I found a home that welcomed my potential canine friend. Craigslisting one day, (I did this a lot) I found an ad posted by Muttville.
Muttville is an amazing dog rescue located in the bay area that specializes in senior mutts. I attended their mobile adoption at 18th and Castro (where I now attempt to spend most of my Saturday afternoons). They didn't seem to have any dogs that screamed "I'm yours Liv!". Marie, a wonderful woman from Muttville, told me about this Rottie / Bernese Mt. dog mix named Luther..I had to have him. Filled out the application, got approved and in month I had my big boy. I'd walk down the street and not have to drool over any dog walking by because I had my own boy to take care of.
Luther was 9 years old and as larger breeds go, that's fairly old. He had arthritis in his back legs, hips and possibly his spine. He had a severe case of separation anxiety from me and only me. I couldn't leave the room without him pouting, barking and crying. Speaking with trainers, taking time off work and away from class, I worked with him whenever possible. The more he was left alone the more he destroyed and it was unhealthy for him to be so stressed out. It was a lose - lose situation but I did what I could.
A month later Luther had more trouble walking. Within two days he lost the use of his back legs entirely. I carried him to class with me (he was 90lbs) and around the house. If I hadn't, he would have chosen to drag himself just to be close to me. I felt horrible but I couldn't handle it and my house was no longer suitable for his conditions. Too many stairs.. too much chaos. I contacted his previous foster mom, Stephanie, and told her everything. Those who knew my situation reassured me that I did everything I could. Putting him in Stephanie's car, he stared at me and was trying to find a way out. That moment was more heartbreaking than anything I had ever felt. I hugged Stephanie and apologized again. It was the hardest I'd cried in a long time.
Luther passed away two days later. I still think about whether or not there was more I could've done for him.
Having had that experience, I decided to get involved. A brand new organization, Family Dog Rescue was founded by Angela Padilla, Reed Morgan and Nicole Roth. Since then I have been fostering for them and doing what I can to help. My passion is to help rescue dogs find their forever homes as well as thrive with their new families. Being involved is such a rewarding experience for me and I hope to continue this for a very long time.
Family Dog Rescue is a collaboration of many wonderful folks that have experience working with other rescues, humane societies and animal control agencies. Family Dog is constantly looking for more volunteers! If you're interested in helping, please see the contacts below!
to volunteer: maury.argento@gmail.com
to adopt: hoochmolliesparkle@yahoo.com / reedymorgan@gmail.com
"Bringing families together four paws at a time."
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