| Dear Linda, Joan, Constance Bertron, Chris Morrison, Judy Mansfield, Barb Otter, Kim Koester, Terry & Jan Boyer, Tina Lasini, Bev, Mary & John Treon, Barb Cotters, Donna Coon, Beth Strayer, John Niederer, Kathy Nahill, Bethany Thomas, Colleen, Dee Lang , John & Kathleen Pearson, Sherry Horn, Gretchen Booth, Tricia , Richard & Pam Bush, Mary Stewart, Sandra Evans, Mary Heim, Castaway Cockers, Faith Kleeman, Diane Knight, Laura Lau and Maria Sariego, Ana Cilursu, Mary G., Ginny, Kathy. A couple of months ago the concept that some puppies in pet stores would not sell and would spend a significant part of their puppy life in a cage at a pet store did not really enter my mind. I always wonder where all these pet store puppies go to and somehow "know" that some of them do not have a "lived-happily-ever-after" ending. I'm sure many of them are destined to fill our shelters and challenge the many rescue groups out there trying their best to deal with this disposable society we seem to live in. But I never thought there would be puppies that were still looking for a place to call home when they are a year old ... or even older. But apparently Faith's story is not that unusual. As we speak, I am aware of at least 2 other "older" puppies who are currently for sale at a pet store only a couple of blocks away from me. Like Faith, they have lived their entire lives in a cage, and although greatly reduced, they are also not wanted. What will become of them? Faith was a very special little doggie, I wish all of you could have met her, I know you would have loved her. I am still shocked by her tragic ending and still question why she was taken so early, why she was taken just when she finally had a chance to find a place of her own and a family to adore her. I miss her and will forever be saddened by her death. I am also sorry that she will never get to brightened another's life like she did mine, although for too brief a time. When I think of Faith, I will always remember her wonderful "smile," that tongue constantly hanging out of her mouth, her always-wagging tail, her beautiful eyes and her lovely disposition. And I will never forget the outpouring of support -- both emotional and financial -- from perfect strangers and friends alike. You have all in some way been touched by Faith's story, you will remember her from time to time and help me keep her memory alive. And please know that your generosity is greatly appreciated and will be put to good use. I already have a new foster in my home. Another Blenheim Cavalier, this one a boy, found wondering the streets of Long Island. Although the gentleman who found him tried for over a week to find this little guy's owners, his efforts were in vain. Ziggy -- as I have named him -- seems to be another unwanted dog, another casualty of our throwaway culture. Ziggy is much older than Faith, maybe 6 or 7 years old, hard to tell. He has a bad heart, a grade 5 heart murmur. He had two seizures the first couple of days with me ... but luckily none since that time. He has already had a complete vet check and blood work done. Next he will have to start his heart meds and will need to see a cardiologist in time. He also needs a dental and at least one tooth removed. He is a sweetheart and reminds me a great deal of Faith, even has a "smudge" on the side of his muzzle, just like Faith did. He likes everyone and is very contented to simply sit by your side and keep you company. I think Faith would have liked him a lot! I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your help, for your generosity and for caring so much about a little dog you never even met. A very good friend of mine who is a graphic designer has put together a couple of "collages" of Faith's pictures for me. Any of you who are interested in getting a copy to keep can email me your name and address and I will mail you the printed picture as soon as I get them done. Sincerely, Rosemary DiStefano |
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| Names in RED indicate raffle winners |