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A Happy Home, Forever Farm
Written By: Donn Gash - Friends for Life Forever Farm | Issue: 2018/04 - April | Photograph By: Korah McDonald
In early 2015, Friends For Life was asked if we had room for a 12-year-old, heartworm-positive Basset Hound/Shepherd mix. Her name was Happy. One of her elderly owners had passed away, and the other was moving into a nursing facility. We were contacted by the adult children of the owners, who were unable to take in their parents’ pet, but knew their parents would want her cared for.
When Happy came to us, the first thing anyone noticed was her comical appearance, with her Shepherd face and coat, but short, knobby Basset legs and long body. It didn’t take long to see she also possessed an endearing, loveable personality. It was easy to see why her human parents loved her and wanted to know she would be safe and loved after they were no longer able to look after her.
Not only has Happy blended effortlessly with other dogs at the farm, she has grieved along with staff when we’ve said goodbye to her elderly canine companions when they’ve passed. She has been a poignant example of the love and empathy dogs can feel.
In the time since she came to us, Happy has developed the aches and pains that come with old age, and takes daily medications to help her feel as good as possible. She is 15 years old now. She has days she spends mostly sleeping. But she also has many days spent out in her yard, feeling the grass under her feet and sun on her face. She chases her faster moving companions, hopping on her funny little legs like a rabbit.
Caring for pets like Happy, giving them a home in the twilight of their lives is an honor and a responsibility we take to heart. It’s a duty that requires deep commitment and great resources. If you would like to help with our work, please consider a tax-deductible donation to help further our mission. For more information, visit our website at www.friendsforlife.org or call (828) 508-2460. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 340, Sapphire, NC 28774.
