Forever in our Hearts
Benny
Benny was found as a stray and came to the sanctuary after a younger dog at his foster home attacked him when he had a seizure. It took several months to get his seizures under control and he was good for 9 months before they came back. Eventually they were to much for his body to handle. Oh Benny, my sweet, sweet boy. I didn't realize how much I interacted with him until he was gone. He would always greet me in the morning by putting his nose between my legs and wag his tail as I said "Good Morning Benny"! He would come up to me on the couch and put his head in my lap while he did his low growl and bark at me for attention. If I had a pillow on my lap he would flip it out of the way. He would ring the bells on the door to go out and scratch to come back in. But when I opened the door for him to come in he would turn and walk away! He would do this time and time again until he decided he was ready to come in. He loved attention and would paw at your foot until you gave it to him. He loved chasing cars along the front fence and he loved basking in the sun with his belly up. The Sanctuary is so quiet without my sweet boy.
Toby
Toby was found as a stray in very poor physical condition, matted fur, blind (both of his eyes were damaged), suspected to be deaf and approximately 12 years old. When he came to the sanctuary he was very anxious and would pull away and shake when touched. He had to be diapered and would often have bowel movements inside the house. I have a small yard that was safe for him and he could go out in the big yard when I could monitor him closely. He was constantly wandering around the house until he was tired and then he would lay down, right where he was, to take a nap. I suspect he might have suffered from dementia. There was nothing we could do for his eyes other than keep them clean and put medication in daily. Over time he came to trust me and the other dogs. I know he could hear because when I called his name his head would perk up and he would turn and walk towards my voice. He would stop when he was near me and let me pet him. I could pick him up without him struggling to pull away. I could clean his eyes without a struggle. In the end I believe he knew he was safe and loved and that is the reason the sanctuary is here, for dogs like Toby.
Midge
Midge was 1 of the 3 bonded dogs that were the first to come to the sanctuary after their owner suddenly passed away. She was a 14 year old spunky girl who loved to cuddle right next to me in bed under the covers. She loved her brother Scooter and took care of him which kept his anxiety in check. She loved exploring the yard but eventually had to be muzzled in the yard to keep her from eating plants, including some cactus that once kept her up all night! She preferred to nap on a chair or next to me on the couch. She had a large growth on her side and I came to find out that her owner was saving up to have that growth removed. When I had it removed we found out it was cancer and a couple of months later it was found that her cancer had spread and was throughout her abdomen. She was special girl and such a joy. She would follow me to any room and nap near me, even when she could hardly get up. 3 months was just not enough time with her but I'm so grateful to have had that time with her. When it was time, I brought Scooter to the emergency vet and he was next to her as she passed. We miss and love you Midge, my sweet girl.
Bella
Bella was one of 3 bonded dogs who's owner passed away suddenly and found herself at the shelter. I had not moved into the sanctuary yet but made a commitment if a foster could be found. They had a wonderful foster who stepped up and took care of all 3 until they could be brought to the sanctuary. Bella had cancer and by the time she got to the sanctuary she was ready to go. She passed in my arms within 24 hours of arriving. Her bonded brother and sister (Scooter and Midge) were able to say goodbye. I believe she was meant to pass at the sanctuary so Scooter and Midge knew this was going to be their new home where they would be safe and loved. Thank you for hanging on until the three of you could come to the sanctuary Midge. You are now with your mom Cheryl and I know you are looking after your Scooter.
Santiago
You've read Santiago's story under "Our First Rescue" so I thought I would just give you my feelings towards him. I was in Hawaii taking care of my mom until she passed in 2021. It was the hardest thing I have ever done and the feeling of loss when my mom passed was something I had only felt after my brother passed when I was in high school. I was taking care of Princess, my mother's 17 year old cat, but missed having a dog. I talked to a rescue friend of mine about potentially fostering and she suggested I take "the old man from the sea" Santiago. After a small adjustment period Santiago was home! He and Princess became close friends and I would catch then napping together. Santiago saved me from my grief and gave me a reason to leave the condo. We walked Waikiki several times a day and he always garnered comments and attention from neighbors and tourists. I took Santiago in as a hospice and we expected him to have about 3 months. He lived 11 months, he was my soul dog and I still miss him every day. So, what I do today, I do in honor of you Santiago.