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All dogs who rescue humans, or visit them as Therapy Dogs...

 I rescued a human today

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly, and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.

As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy, and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to, and want to make a difference in someone's life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.

A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.

I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors: so many more to be saved. At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

(Author Unknown)

Hettie joined our team in July 2009. She was very committed to the programme from the beginning, and soon became a valued member of the TOP Dogs family.

She enjoyed all types of visits, and worked with various dogs,

Unfortunately, all too soon she became very ill, but her suffering ceased on 14^th December 2009.

We miss you Hettie.

Finzie –

Congratulations on your retirement

Finzie was a founder member of TOP Dogs in July 2008, but had already been a qualified Therapy dog for several years.

She enjoyed visits to young and old alike, but was rather fussy about the type of treats she accepted.

Finzie is now 11 so has decided to give her younger sister the chance to follow in her footsteps.

We all wish you a long and healthy retirement Finzie, and thank you for all the smiles you have spread as a TOP Dog.

Mowgli

Mowgli was a founder member of TOP Dogs in July 2008, but had already been a qualified Therapy Dog for several years.

The children especially loved him, but he was just as happy visiting young and old alike.

Mowgli was very special as he ‘trained’ many inexperienced handlers, and was very patient with them.

He crossed the rainbow bridge on 13^th January 2010, after a short illness, and leaves a big gap in the TOP Dogs family.

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Last updated: 2010-01-18