Kelly's Story

Kelly was born on June 4, 1998, making her a year and three months old at the time of the auction. Since she was bred on August 26, we estimated that she might have puppies around the end of October. But, during her trip to the veterinarian, we found out that she was not pregnant.

Kelly had never been socialized, walked on grass, or played with other dogs. However, she is learning fast. She likes people a lot and wants to be very close to whichever human is around. She is learning about being held and is starting to give little kisses.

At first, she was afraid to walk in the grass. It may have hurt her feet since they were pretty sensitive after standing on wire for more than a year. But once she got used to the idea of grass, she absolutely blossomed. At first, she would walk just a few feet and come back. Then she tried running a little way before she came back. Now, she has turned into "Tigger" and springs around the yard from person to person. It is such an amazing adjustment for just two days of freedom. It's funny the things you can learn from a puppy mill dog. Kelly kept trying to stand on her back legs. Although we have seen all of our kids do this when they were trying to get into something. Kelly was doing it in the middle of the floor. It finally dawned on us that she had never been able to do this before because her cage wasn't tall enough.

She still hasn't barked and doesn't understand that squirrels are the enemy, but she's very smart and those things will come. Kelly was fostered in our home with our three Westies and multiple teenagers until she could find her own special family.

Kelly finds a home

Kelly has found a new home with Ann G. in Hollywood, Florida. Ann reports that Kelly is adjusting well and is "so sweet". Ann is considering change Kelly's name since Kelly doesn't seem to like it. Lucky Kelly went to a home where there are two other Westies in residence. Ann had a third Westie that she lost to a poisonous toad, so her other kids were desolate. Kelly is doing her best to cheer them up!

Kelly has picked the name Kendra for herself. I tried several names. This is the one she responded to. She now knows that that is who she is. She is very affectionate. She likes to sleep in my arms and either be held in my lap or sit on my desk. She and my Westie Buddy compete for my attention. She is not shy and is becoming quite inquisitive but doesn't like big or unusual noises. She hasn't barked yet but cries (almost like screaming) at the door when she hears me coming home. Also she wags her tail a lot.

I believe this sweetie (and she is so sweet) is adjusting well. She definitely trusts me and I love her. She isn't ready to play with my other dogs yet, but given time, I believe she will come around. She is such a sweet and pleasant dog. It breaks my heart that she was in that terrible place. I just hope they haven't stolen her joy permanently. She is very much loved and needed here.

Thank you for letting me be blessed with her.
New mom, Ann G.

UPDATE on Kendra

Kendra (Kelly), the little puppy mill rescue is doing so well. Kendra is so relaxed and happy. What a delight to see her running through the house just as fast as she can with a smile on her face.

I never dreamed that this dog would be so happy and bring all of us so much happiness. These rescue sweeties are so forgiving and hopeful. I would highly recommend anyone wanting a Westie to consider a rescue. After all, just look at Maddie Anne and Kendra. Both these dogs had rough beginnings but have made remarkable progress and have brought such joy to their moms.
Anne, Pupper, Buddy and Happy Kendra