Toby's Story

My name is Tobie, and I'm 3 years old. I've been in a few homes and shelters, but that was in my past life.

I was reborn on 4/15/05 in Effingham, IL when my forever parents came from Atlanta, GA to my foster home to pick me up. They drove a very long way, but said I was sure worth it. My Mom and Dad were talking about me a lot in the car on the way home. They were saying things like, "he rides in the car like a little gentleman," and "he’s really a good little guy." I was so proud of myself! We spent the night in a motel, and I acted very, very good there, too. No potties in the room or anything - even though there were some great smells!

My new brother and sister were waiting for me when we arrived home. My brother, Melvin, is a 14-year old Westie and has diabetes, cataracts and arthritis. My sister, Molly, is a Lhasa mix and was also a rescue a long time ago. They were a little curious about me and a little stand-offish, but I think I’ve won them over now because they just mostly sleep and ignore me. 

After a few days in my forever home I discovered something truly wonderful. I HAVE A CAT!!! At first she was scared of me until she discovered I wouldn’t hurt her. She’s really cool, and a good runner too. We’re buddies now. Sometimes she’ll play along with me and run away like she used to so I can chase her. That’s so much fun! 

My Mom and Dad say they could tell when I started to love them. About a month after they brought me home, I started getting stressed when they went to work. It was pretty upsetting because I didn’t know if they were coming back or not. Mom and Dad were really, really understanding since they knew I’d had so many homes in my past life. They were patient and worked hard to reassure me, and I finally understood that they come back every evening. They said I had separation anxiety and that there were things they could do to train me to feel safe and loved. Well, I do feel safe and loved, and it didn’t take very long at all.

My Mom and Dad say they could tell when I started to love them. About a month after they brought me home, I started getting stressed when they went to work. It was pretty upsetting because I didn’t know if they were coming back or not. Mom and Dad were really, really understanding since they knew I’d had so many homes in my past life. They were patient and worked hard to reassure me, and I finally understood that they come back every evening. They said I had separation anxiety and that there were things they could do to train me to feel safe and loved. Well, I do feel safe and loved, and it didn’t take very long at all.

Every year we’re going to celebrate my birthday on April 15th since that’s the day I was born into my family. I sure am glad my Mom and Dad saw my picture on the rescue website, learned about me, and wanted me "FOREVER!"