Sadie’s story

By: Priscilla Wright

 Sadie’s story of survival and rescue is unique and hard to believe. The “Fort Irwin” Afghan Hound was seen by military and contractors for 8½+ years flying across the desert amidst all odds. Fending for herself, digging deep tunnels in the sand to keep warm and cool, fighting coyotes and starvation, outwitting the military personnel told to “get her” with traps, jeeps, guns, etc.

 She attended the military barbeques for handouts, and many contractors fed her at the back doors. United Parcel Service Driver, Debbie, kept food and water in her truck. Sadie would run from anywhere when she saw the friendly brown truck. She would eat, drink and rest in the shade of the truck - but would let no one touch her.

 At the end of May 2004, we were notified for the second time of her plight. Two years before the call had come, but the military would not let outsiders on the base.

 After careful planning, I took the “afghan trap” up to the base to the contractor's building Sadie was going to for food and water. With the help of Mickey Quillman, who let me on base, and Yolanda, Debbie, Roni and Joe and a big chunk of liverwurst, she was in the trap in one day!

 I have traveled miles with her and gone through months of teaching her about life in the urban world. It was quite a frightening time for Sadie, but patience soft words, hugs, love and understanding made her trust again.

 Sadie continues to thrill us beyond all belief, and charms us with her indomitable spirit, energy, intelligence and humor. She will continue to be at my side now and forever.