My love for rescued dogs started at a young age. We adopted an adorable Shepard Mix named Toby and instantly were in love. It quickly became obvious that she was not in good health. The vet told us that Toby had distemper, and told us not to get too attached. Of course it was too late for that. After many long months nursing Toby back to health, Toby made a turn fot the better. Her entire life was spent with half the lung capacity of a “normal dog” and her wheezened breathing came to be a constant sound in our house. Toby lived to be 10 years old and her death was tramatic to the entire family. We all adored Toby. I have since married and adopted two pound pups of my own. Peyton, a border collie/Chow mix that we got as a puppy and Cooper, a retriever/Chow mix that had been adopted and returned a year later. He still does as Sprite does, tucks his head when you go to pet him, even though he was gotten nothing but hugs and pets for the past two years. It breaks my heart to think of the treatment he got before coming to live with us as he is a wonderful dog. They both are the best dogs any owner could ask for, and I hope that someday my own children will have a soft spot in their hearts for those dogs most in need of a caring and kind owner. I love how you say that in the end we are the lucky ones b/c it is so true. The unconditional love that these little furry wonders grant us is a true inspiration to us all.

Molly from NC

Mark,

Thank you for sharing your story and for sharing this corner with us.

My world turned upside down today. Our Brussels Griffon, WIckett, passed away this morning.

He was attacked by a Lab this past Friday (his 3 year birthday). He held on until today, and the doctors seemed to think he was going to be ok.

Unfortunately, he took a turn for the worse this morning and left us.

I am so thankful for the three short years we had with WIckett. He brought my wife and I more joy than any pet we have ever had the privilege of owning. He was the sweetest dog in the world. He loved everybody- and in his eyes the only reason people came around was to see him and let him love on them.

My wife and I are both brokenhearted at his passing. There are so many little things we took for granted- the greetings after work, the good morning kisses…

He is no longer with us in body, but will always be a part of our lives.

Rest in Peace Wickett. We love you and will never forget the joy you brought us.

Mike from TN

We are still weepy after puting our beloved golden retriever to sleep two weeks ago. He was almost 15 and had cancer. An unbelievable dog who smiled, and who would do whatever you asked of him. So trusting until the end. I feel so blessed to have had such a wonderful pet.

Susan from NY

Our son and daughter-in-law adopted a standard, apricot-colored poodle that was abused….her jaw was broken….her ears had to be repaired because they were so badly cut….had to be shaved she was so badly matted….and she weighed about 28 pounds when she collapsed in someone\’s yard.  They took her home, and their other 2 standards immediately realized that she was frail, and in a weak nature.  It\’s been 4 weeks….she\’s put on weight….is trotting about the yard….her ears are healing….her hair is coming in….and she loves to be loved.

She, too, is older that was originally thought, but she’s now  our special “grand-dogger”!

Marti from PA

Mark,
First of all I want to thank you.  For being a great American.  For being a compassionate, influential member of the media.  For standing up for what is right.  Last year my wife, Mayah, called the show to tell you about our story.  We had a beautiful son who was born with a life ending birth defect on June 21, 2003.   In the following six months we lost our dog Riley, and both of Mayah\’s grandfathers.  You, being the compassionate person you are, sent us a copy of Rescuing Sprite.  I read it, and saw a different side of you.  Not just the lib fighter, but a loving, caring conservative.  On the first anniversary of Keegan\’s death, we purchased a beautiful Maltese male puppy.  Bailey brought so much joy to our life.  He slept with us, went on trips, and lit up our lives\’ everyday.  This morning, Oct. 6, 2008, Bailey ran out into the road and was hit by a truck.   I rushed him to the vet but by the time I got there he had already passed.  This is going to be especially hard on Mayah because it will rehash all of those old memories.  If you could say some prayers for our family I would be very appreciative.  I hope this finds you and your family well.
In Good Health,

Jeremy from LA