Sammie's Story
Sammie came to us from a shelter in Southern Illinois where she was boarded for two months prior to her owners releasing her to the shelter. She was used as a breeder and was in horrible condition. Besides the lack of thyroid treatment, Sammie had an all over yeast infection, ear infection, allergies to corn, wheat and beef AND a horrible eye infection. Her hair was terribly thin over most her body and completely GONE across her back, while her eyes were so filled with pus I truly thought she was blind with cataracts.
I kept a baby onesie on her for warmth and to prevent her from licking/scratching off the medicated skin ointments I used to give her some relief. I wasn't sure if we could or should save this little one . . . but little did I know.
Sammie was only to be in my care for no more than 24 hours, but my husband took one look at her and said she was simply too sick to be transported to a more permanent foster home. Sammie spent over a month in my care where she received her medicines and daily bath treatments.
When she left a huge part of my heart went with her. However, that hole has since been filled with many, many letters and phone calls from her new family telling me about her adventures and her life with them. She could not be in a better place and on many occasions I've tried to get the Shuman's to adopt ME! They have cared for her and taken on a HUGE financial expense due to the neglect she suffered in her previous home, but they completely adore her and assure me that Sammie is worth every penny they spend.
The photos are the before and after shots of Sammie after just FIVE days of TLC. The photo of Sammie standing was taken as she ventured outside for the first time to catch a little sunshine. That is why we call her Sammie Sunshine. You can truly SEE the difference a little love can make in this great breed! She has since blossomed into her full glory under the gentle hands and loving hearts of the Shumans.
Joanne and Robert Shuman's story
Sammie has been with us only four short months, but oh how she has blossomed despite numerous vet visits, treatments and surgery. She is such a joy. We cannot imagine what it was like without her. How anyone could have given her up is beyond us.
She has a 1 1/2 yr. old Westie sister to keep up with too and does a very good job of it. They are learning from each other which has its drawbacks.....trouble times two!. We have learned so much from this petite, agile 10 yr. old....mainly don't leave your place on the sofa, bed or chair because Sammie will get her butt there ASAP and plant it just right! She loves to play and is especially fond of stuffed toys.
Thanks to two "angels"....Angie for rescuing her and Tikae for transporting her from Illinois to Virginia.... Sammie now has her forever home.
She is our Sammie Sunshine.
Joanne
UPDATE March 6, 2006
After much thought and conversations with the vet it was time to let Sammie go. She passed away this morning.
Sammie has never been quite the same since Brogan passed away (10 months ago) but she had more good days than bad. The last two weeks she began to experience a rapid decline...mentally. Cognitive dysfunction took over. At this stage nothing could be done to help her. Our hearts are broken. She was 14 years 5 months. She was with us for four and a half years. Our precious Sammie is now at peace.
Bob and Joanne