In 2001 we adopted a Boston Terrier puppy mill rescue dog. Trixie spent the first 4 years of her life in a metal cage. Constantly breeding and obviously with no medical attention. When we received our special girl we immediately had to remove 11 of her rotten teeth and scoop out spoonfuls of “muck” from her infected ears. Her legs were atrophied from huddling in a cage and her paws were raw and spread out. We introduced her to grass, walking and dog food. It took three months of careful petting and behavior before she would even begin to initiate contact with us. She gradually became a happy,tail-wagging dog that felt loved, but never fully recovered from the psychological scars from whatever abuse she suffered. In the five years we had her she experienced endless walks at the park, car rides, treats and even weekend getaways with us and our other Boston Mugsy. She never knew the immense joy she brought to our family but I think our love helped erase some of the terrible things other human beings did to her. Having to let her go because of a stomach tumor was one of the hardest things I ever had to do. I knew in my heart it was her time to go but it doesn’t lessen the pain of losing a companion who gave you unconditional love. I tell her story as a way to honor her brave spirit.

Claudia from CT