Welcome Franny!

Miss Francine is our newest Rebound Hound. She is a 17 year old sweetheart with limited vision and very little hearing. She joined the fold last weekend and she definitely fits right in with Miss Greta, our blind and paralyzed Dachshund, and Dewey, our little tripod of uncertain pedigree.

Until last week, Franny didn't have a name. She was surrendered to our city shelter by a concerned neighbor of her former owner. Apparently, the woman was about about to be evicted and was not taking care of her dog.

We don't know much about her past, but judging by the pitiful condition we found her in, it seems pretty doubtful that Franny has ever been treated well. She was emaciated and filthy. For the first few days, she would flinch each time we went to pet her. She still seems unused to sleeping on soft beds and getting regular meals. All the evidence would suggest that this small Chihuahua has had a harsh, largely loveless life.

It's a heartbreaking story, one that I've seen over and over again at the animal shelters I've been involved with. When a dog becomes old and feeble, they become disposable.

I know I can't save every senior dog that needs saving, just as I know that the overnight anonymous "drop boxes" will be filled with more unwanted animals at our city shelter each morning, but I am so grateful that at least we can give Franny some time in a safe, loving home. She has a delightful spirit and we are enjoying each new day as we get to know her.