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Finlay is a perfect example of a senior in need. Callusly dumped by his family,
poor Finlay found himself sitting in an animal control facility, because of his
age and some age related health issues Finlay was not considered a good adoption
candidate and after his 7 day stray hold was due to be euthanized, a kind shelter
worker alerted us to his plight, and we happily made arrangements to take him in.
Over the few months he was under our care this dignified kindly soul proved to be
a joy to live with, loved by everyone that met him, - including all his k9 foster
siblings – a love that he reciprocated 10 fold. We could go on endlessly about just
how wonderful this boy is, but suffice to say, this boy is truly special. Happily
Finlay has now gone onto his new home, a home where he will be valued and loved
for the rest of his days, his new Mum is pretty special too, she believes, like
us, that seniors deserve the best that we can give them, and that a short period
of time with a lot of love is better than a long time with none. Sadly there are
too many other Finlay’s in shelters around the country who don’t get the chance
of a loving new life, abandoned by the family they have given love and devotion
to, and end their days alone and unloved in a frightening shelter environment.
Letter from His Mom:
My love affair with Labs
I came to this love life at a relatively late in life. Here in Northern Minnesota,
Labs are one of the most popular breeds of dogs, especially if one enjoys hunting
and fishing. We tend to joke that if one has a cabin or owns a boat, it is practically
a law that a Lab is required. And although I'd been around the breed for nearly
fifty years, I'd never owned one.
Two years ago, I fell in love with the photo of a yellow Lab featured in our local
paper as "Pet of the Week", available for adoption through a local animal shelter.
My dog had recently died, and left a lonely place in my heart and home. The Lab
was described as being a senior citizen, having been abandoned, and only able to
take short walks as he only had three legs. He was the perfect match for me because
I have Multiple Sclerosis, and at times also experience some difficulty in walking.
The adoption of Bodger brought not only unconditional love into my life, but also
physical fitness and stamina to both of us. The routine of exercise brought dog
and owner the ability to walk 2 1/2 daily miles. We both lost weight, added strength,
became physically fit, and probably added years to our lives. Today, he runs and
swims and brings great joy to me. I'm more ambulatory than I have been in years.
Everyone loves this dog, and he has friends everywhere he goes.
As he has begun to gradually slow down over this winter, I came to the realization
that I never want to be without such a dignified and gentle presence in my life.
A rescued dog expresses profound gratitude by being simply the best pet imaginable.
Serene and benevolent, they adapt with great ease to a new home and bring with them
great love and devotion.
Last week, I adopted Finley from Quad Cities Lab Rescue, and he too has been a wonderful
addition to our household. This "older gentleman" had also been abandoned, and exhibited
some weakness in his back legs.His yellow coat and size resemble Bodger's appearence
closely. He has fit seamlessly into our home and neighborhood. His easy disposition
and innately sweet nature are exactly what I anticipated. Every day brings an improvement
to his legs, and our walks are steadily lengthening. I have no doubts that he will
also experience a renaissance.He has certainly increased my enjoyment of life!
For those of us disinclined to commit to the time and training required by a puppy,
adopting a senior is to experience all the immediate enjoyment a dog brings to our
lives. Now on my fifth rescue dog, I can honestly say that they have been the best
pets with whom I've had the privelige of sharing my life. Unfailingly, they have
been adaptable, well-behaved, loyal, and loving.
Recalling a 1990's television show, I've taken to calling my two Labs, "The Golden
Boys". They're senior citizens, living in a beautiful retirement home complete with
a zany older mother, and no doubt will experience weekly adventures. Ah...life is
good.
Katie
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