This little girl has changed me.
She was found on the streets, abandoned, then brought to our Sudbury animal shelter. Once there, a vet guessed her age to be between 12 to 14 years. She was diagnosed palliative, having breast cancer, kidney failure and her teeth horribly rotted out.
My friend, Chris, was not going to let her die in the pound. She brought her home to make her last weeks alive her best. She named her Parsley.
My feelings over the years was that prolonging an animal’s life, who is in pain and distress, is so wrong. I felt the same way about this little girl being brought home, but I kept it to myself.
Many years ago, a very good friend of mine was diagnosed with cancer and was told he had three months to live. Six months, if he took chemotherapy. His response was, "No way am I taking that cursed chemo." However, when two months flew by, he wanted the chemo. Life was too beautiful, even with cancer, not to squeeze out a little more if he could.
So, here we are, five months later and Parsley behaves like a young puppy, at times, on our walks.
Chris took her to her own vet, who determined she did not have breast cancer (but not saying there wasn't cancer elsewhere in her little body). Medications have helped with her kidney issues and canned, soft, foods have enabled her to have proper nutrition.
What has impressed me the most, is how she has bonded with Chris. The love that is in her eyes, as they follow Chris around the room. The way she stays close to her, at all times. I can actually feel that love.
And now, I have bonded with her. When I look into her eyes, she seems to look deep within my soul to say "Thank you for being in my life."
So, like my friend that wanted chemo to squeeze out what he could, Chris is doing it for this little girl.
I could never understand anyone abandoning a pet, especially in their later years.
"Dog ownership is like a rainbow. Puppies are the joy at one end. Old dogs are the treasure at the other."
They just dropped her on the streets (for reasons unknown).and missed out on her treasures at the end of the rainbow.
So, our special little girl is living the dream because my friend is taking the time to give her the care (and love) she so deserves at the end of her days.
Parsley, you are loved beyond description. We'll be with you all the way.
Kevin Shanahan, Sudbury