Spirit

A little Afghan Hound who leaves a paw print on the heart of all who meet her!

Written by pam fisher

With love, From “my” heart to “your” heart Spirit

I have been a volunteer for Afghan Hound Rescue of Southern California for four years now and have had Afghan Hounds in my life for over 30 years. All my dogs have touched my life in their own unique way. All have been so very special and dear to me. Then along came Spirit. This is her story…..

Sandy of Afghan Hound Rescue of Southern California, Inc found Spirit on the 710 Freeway in March 2003. It took time, patience, food and perseverance to convince this little Afghan Hound that there was a better life than living on a Freeway off ramp, but it finally happened. Upon her Rescue, Spirit weighed only 22 lbs and was a mere skeleton. She stood only 20 inches at the shoulder, which was extremely small for the Breed and did not have much of a coat. Spirit suffered from high liver function, which prevented Southern California Rescue from having her spayed at the time and placed for adoption. Her age was guessed to be around 8 – 9 years old.

From the very start Spirit was grateful for having been rescued. She followed Sandy everywhere. The forever little worried look on her face was adorable. Spirit was hungry for attention and received it everyday. The bond between them grew. Sandy knew she had to keep this girl.

Over time Spirit put on weight and her coat grew in beautifully. When this little girl went for a walk she would prance with her head held high and proud. She would pick her paws up very high as if to tell the world how happy and beautiful she is!

February, 2004

Then on Memorial Day weekend 2006, Spirit developed Bloat. In the middle of the night Sandy quickly rushed her to an emergency center. Fortunately, there was time to save her life with immediate surgery before damage was done to any organs. Soon afterwards she was moved to a 24-hour care Hospital. It was there that they found she had an irregular heartbeat. But again Spirit beat the odds and pulled through. Upon Sandy's request, my partner Lauren and I brought Spirit to our home to recover as we could keep a closer eye on her. Spirit knew me very well over the years and she lost no time letting us know she was very content and happy in our home. In return, Lauren and I lost no time letting her know how much she was adored and loved. Spirit slowly regained her strength, but she did not fare well from the surgery and had developed small shakes and periods of losing her balance. Since our home was easier for Spirit to get around in and a strong bond had grown, we let Sandy know she could have a permanent home with us for life. With Sandy's blessings we adopted Spirit and continued to cherish every moment with her along with our Afghan Hounds, Trinket, Bailey and our Whippet, Sweet Pea.

After her bloat surgery 6-2006

February 2007

In March 2007 we detected a lump underneath Spirit and after some tests she was diagnosed with Mammary Gland Cancer. We were so saddened by the news of her health. Spirit was referred to a Specialty Surgeon and Oncologist. We were told that her irregular heart beat, along with age of approx 12 plus years made her a very bad risk for surgery. We opted for Chemotherapy in an attempt to keep the tumor at bay as she was still feeling fine. It was her only chance for a longer quality of life. However, after numerous treatments, the tumor has increased in size. We are now presently using a Holistic approach giving her Neoplasene orally. After one month we have not detected any change but remain hopeful nonetheless.

Laguna Beach, May 2007

June 2007

As of July 26, 2007, Spirit is home with us and we value every moment with her that we have left. Never has a dog so touched my soul. She is always by my side, always there for me, always so stoic. She keeps a close eye on me everywhere I go. Spirit loves her walks, visits to the Lake, and has enjoyed her first Christmas with us. She walked proudly in her first Afghan Hound Rescue Parade this year and was chosen to be the May Calendar girl for The Afghan Hound National Rescue Calendar 2007. Lauren and I feel blessed that she has been a part of our lives. We know her time is limited. Spirit has taught me how to cherish the quality of my life…how to find tranquility and value in each moment. Her time has certainly been quality and she has left a paw print on my heart for the rest of my life. Her strength, determination, love and devotion have been like no other.

I sometimes wonder….did this little, stray Afghan Hound come into my life to make a difference or did I come into hers to make one. It doesn't matter. All is good and we all love you little Spirey Girl. Your “spirit” will always remain in the hearts of everyone who knew you.

September 3rd 2007, Spirit lost her fight with cancer. Lauren and I were with her to the end and she quietly died in my arms.

Photo by Sherri Regalbuto

July 2007