How much longer will I be able to put off our parting? Each day I promise myself that today will be the day that I will make the call that will finalize the details. The terrible weather that we have had for the last two weeks has definitely made it nearly impossible to move the "tribe" to their new location with the assistance dog training organization. They have grown so fast and are extremely large pups for their young age. Their mother is a gorgeous pure black GSD, and although we can't be sure what breed the father or fathers of the pups might be, we can be sure that he must have been very large! Hunter and Job, the largest of the puppies are now right at 30 pounds at the age of 9 weeks. They will be amazing adults, of that I am sure, and the wonderful independent little spirits they have will certainly contribute to their role as wonderful companions. It has been a very long time since I have "mothered" an entire litter of little ones, and like any mother, I am finding it very difficult to let go. The fear of what life might have in store for them is terrifying, but I am hopeful that through this organization they will have the opportunity to shine and secure their place in life. As a rescuer for more than 25 years I have
witnessed the best and worst of how humans respond to animals. Their chance of becoming a throw-away is high as a large breed dog that most "pet owners" have neither the knowledge nor the desire, to invest the extra time it takes to train and socialize. As a result many GSD end up on the end of a chain or spending their lives in a small kennel alone. I am determined to do whatever it takes to offer these pups the best start in life imaginable. I have grown accustomed to the ache in my chest as I pass on the care of each pet to their new family, but it is never easy to do. It is, of course, bittersweet, for this was the moment I had worked towards since each one had entered my life, but nevertheless, not easy to say good-bye. Generally each adoption involves placing a single dog or cat in their new home, and even then their absence is is felt both physically and emotionally. More often than not, another pet enters my world and tending to their needs becomes a temporary distraction and life goes on. Each one becomes a permanent member of my "fur-family" and I cherish the memories of my time with them. I also pray that life will be kind to this precious animal, as there are never any guarantees that my hope for a lifetime of happiness and security will be realized. I am sure these will be the last of my rescue litters. My health is making it more and more obvious that I cannot offer them the kind of care and commitment they both need and deserve. They will always be the last of my "babies" and I pray the years of knowledge I have gained will insure they be offered the best that the world has to offer.
I am so proud of you my little "Indians" ~ Hunter, Shaman, Job, Xerses, Gunner, Jericho, Gidget and Ta Nah-Nah.
