I said I would stop counting the shelter-in-place days on this blog, but I changed my mind.
Yesterday I did go ahead and donate the rest of my dog possessions to Amanda, the woman who runs the rescue from which I got Bessie. I’d sent her an email asking how Bessie was doing, and learned that the fosters have decided to adopt her. That is the best news I could have hoped for. But it’s bittersweet. Looking at the picture Amanda sent, of the young couple with their arms around Bessie, I was both relieved and sad. It looks like they love her as much as I did, but she still appears uncertain.
And then today I received another photo, this one with this rather pointed message from Amanda: “Bessie is doing great. Loves the dog park.” Pointed, because she knows that the reason I gave Bessie up was for her social awkwardness around other dogs.
She looks totally happy, and not one bit socially awkward. Frankly, I’m amazed. I never would have attempted a dog park. I knew she could learn to adjust, but more gradually. Well, she is in better hands now: those of people who trust her more than I did. I’d say they got a pretty perfect dog. That is to say, I gave up a pretty perfect dog. It still hurts but I still think it was the best choice for her and me. She’s found an outstanding, accepting home.
Now it’s just me and the squirrels again.
What a good outcome for Bessie! And you and I both know you absolutely did the very best thing for Bessie, for you, for your family and those unknowns out there that could have had a not so great experience when encountering a (formerly) traumatized beasty. Be comforted by the smiles and good will. Bessie no doubt dreams of you, her attentive savior. Wag, wag.??
On the other hand….the taunting, malevolent squirrels look like they’d love to invade your dreams. Don’t let ‘em! Sling shot, perhaps? Just to dissuade their comfort level with your yard?
Aww yay!!! So glad to see Bessie smiling like that! I do miss her but I’ve got to admit I’m pretty excited I get to watch the squirrels harass you again… 😉
All’s well that ends well — and i’m so happy that the young couple decided to keep her. You did a great job of “socializing” her and restoring her confidence, so that she became adaptable!
Yes, I think it ended well. I will always remember my (somewhat stressful) time with sweet Bessie. She deserves, and will get, a whole two-page spread in my scrapbook.
So glad of the outcome, even with its mixed relief and sadness – and glad that you and she got to know each other, for a little while!
Ooh, look at them beady little eyes.