- Joined
- Jan 1, 2015
- Messages
- 220
- Reaction score
- 9
Artie's story:
In April of 2012, I bought French Fry off of Craigslist for $100.00. His owner said that he had 2 back surgeries and although weak in the rear legs,was doing well with physical therapy, but needed continued therapy. I did not want this dog to end up in the wrong hands. He smelled horribly of pee and came only with a collar and a pair of booties. His little back legs were withered, but he seemed happy.
I renamed him Arby and began fostering him under the French Bulldog Rescue Network. Arby was promptly taken to the neurologist who advised me that Arby had never had spinal surgery (no scars) and was indeed paralyzed. The owner had lied to me. Humph, imagine that.
To determine what was causing his paralysis and if surgery might help him, Arby needed an MRI. I posted in another dog forum about his story, and a wonderful woman on the other side of the country messaged me and told me that she'd cover his MRI and spinal surgery- $4,000. Talk about an angel!!
Unfortunately, the MRI showed that Arby was not a surgical candidate... he had fluid in his spinal cord that had destroyed the neurons. So, Arby's angel purchased him an Eddie's Wheels cart instead.
After only 3 months in foster care, Arby was adopted in July of 2012. His new mom and dad drove from AZ to CA with their corgi Mousse to pick him up. They renamed him Artie. Later they moved to OR and adopted a lab/healer pup named Frank.
So, it's been 3 years since Artie's adoption. I recently was forwarded an update that they are all doing well, along with several videos.
Here is a picture that I have hanging in my bedroom near by bed. It was made and given to me from Artie's parents when they adopted him.
And here is one of the videos sent to me; Artie, his corgi sister Mousse and lil' (!!!) brother Frank:
It is such a rewarding experience to see an unwanted, neglected dog blossom into a healthy, happy, beloved family member. Especially the special needs ones.
Fostering is such a rewarding experience. If you've ever thought about it but weren't sure, I'd advise to give it a try. Yes, it is bittersweet and your heart will break when they get adopted, but knowing that you helped a living creature to heal, both physically and emotionally and prepared them for their future makes it all worth it!
