But change was once again in the wind for Ben, and for all of us. Mommy Michelle's circumstances had changed for the better, and she asked that Ben be returned.
But Wait... What's THIS?
or... The
Rest of the Story
Unfortunately,
after he learned that he would be living with us permanently, Ben
stopped keeping his journal, preferring instead more typically
canine pursuits... chasing leaves, splashing in the fishpond,
dozing by the fire and acting as "recreation director"
for the Clowns.
But change was once again in the wind for Ben, and for all of us.
Mommy Michelle's circumstances had changed for the better, and
she asked that Ben be returned.
It wouldn't be honest to say that this request was greeted warmly or with joy. Instead, there was pain, disappointment and anger, accompanied by much soul-searching as all of us tried to overcome our personal feelings and once again do "the right thing" for Ben. In the end, it was decided that Ben should be reunited with his original family... there were no valid reasons to keep him other than our own selfish ones. And so, on November 2, Ben was finally "Homeward Bound" - sent off with hugs, kisses and a bittersweet combination of laughter and tears.
The
roller-coaster of emotions that this story represents might deter
some readers from ever becoming involved in animal rescue, but
after going through it, we can say in all honesty that we'd do it
again in a heartbeat. While Ben's story is not the
"typical" rescue story, with the "typical"
outcome, it did (as so many rescue stories do) lead to happy
ending. The role of the foster family is a difficult one. It's
not easy to guard your heart when a loving animal in need comes
into your life for a little while, but the rewards are rich
indeed. Seeing the boundless joy that Ben expressed when his Mom
and Dad came for him was the greatest reward of all, for we knew
then that the right decision had been made.
Ben,
you'll ALWAYS have a special place in our hearts!
Learn More About Rescue!
Sadly, many dogs just as sweet and
intelligent as Ben are euthanized every day. If you have been
moved in any way by our story, please do your part to help. Call
your local shelter or a breed rescue group and ask about their
"wish list," then make a donation of money, time, or
much-needed items like food, grooming equipment or other
supplies. If your circumstances permit and your interest is
sincere, open your heart and home to a rescue dog. If you have
pets of your own that are not neutered, please do so to prevent
the ever-growing number of abandoned and homeless animals.
To
find out more about animal rescue efforts, please take the time
to visit some or all of the following links. Thank you for
caring!
National Breed Club Rescue
Network
- part of the American Kennel Club's website, this is a link to
organizations that rescue purebred dogs (listed by breed).
Animal Rescue Resources - A listing of shelters
and rescue groups (including mixed-breed rescue groups) organized
by state, with Canadian groups listed as well. It is not limited
to dogs, but also cats, horses and more.
Rescue - For someone looking for
an adult dog, rescue is often a wonderful option. This article
describes a bit about how rescue works in general, and includes
tips on helping the animal adjust to its new home.
Why People Do Rescue - A look at some of the
"wrong" motivations for becoming involved in rescue -
something worth reading to clarify your motivations if you do
choose to volunteer, and things to be aware of when evaluating a
rescue organization.
Why I Do Rescue - One individual's
experiences with rescue, & the rewards that were derived.
Whenever you want to go "Home", just click on the little house in the woods.
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