Photo Contest
For
rescue pets & IMOM PIN kids (past or present)
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Pet number and name: 075 - Rocky
Submitted by: Mary - VA, USA
25% of profits to: GRREAT
I volunteer for a Golden Retriever rescue, GRREAT as the Intake Coordinator. In
September 2005, I got a call from another rescue asking if GRREAT could bring in
a 5 year old male named Rocky, as they didn't have a foster home suitable for
his needs. My husband and I had not intended to foster Rocky, but through a
series of events, he ended up at our home.
Rocky's life before coming into GRREAT was very unsettled and he had been passed
from home to home; in fact, we were his 4th home in 3 months. It was apparent
from the first night he was here that he had some issues -- he picked fights
with our other Goldens, he resource guarded food and toys, and he had separation
anxiety, to name a few. Within a few weeks of being here, Rocky settled into
our routines and all of his "issues" were disappearing. We have no training
experience with behavior issues, but common sense, patience, and love proved to
be the key in working through his issues.
So many people had given up on Rocky and while I'm sad that he had to go through
so much, we are unbelievably happy and blessed that he came into our lives. He
is such a sweet, loving, well-adjusted boy. One month after coming to our home
as a foster, we adopted Rocky and he fits in with our little pack perfectly!
Dogs who have been rescued know it, and like Rocky, they will show you every
single day how much they love you and appreciate you for being the one who
finally gave them the chance to shine. You'll never regret opening up your
heart and home to an animal who needs a second chance.
The picture of Rocky pretty much says it all and what makes this picture even
better is that it was not staged! When Rocky first came to our home, he carried
this pillow around with him all the time. On this particular day, my husband
was able to grab the camera and get this shot of him (finally!) holding the
pillow right side up and out! If Rocky could talk, I know he'd say he agrees
with the sentiment on this pillow!
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