Some said we could never tame this once-wild acre of thistle and weeds into a garden.
Apparently, we like a challenge.
Some things are their own reward.
But when the gauntlet is thrown down, and the impossible is achieved – victory is that much more gratifying.
So it was this week with some of our “Going Homes.” Jet (now Jasper) had a file as thick as an encyclopedia. He had been bounced around like a ping-pong ball for his one failing: he leaked. And not pee!
They said it was impossible, but our Doc proved otherwise. He’ll be on a strict diet for the rest of his life, but treats are easy to forgo when you exchange them for love and a forever home. Saturday, his foster mom joined our “Failed Foster Club” and made it official.
Myra celebrated Mother’s Day by adopting her own human “mom” (and dad!).
She is one of our dogs rescued from the South Korea dog meat market (I wrote about it here). What a journey they have had. Rescued by the Humane Society International, and brought to us by their partner in the effort, the San Francisco SPCA, she was part of a group of four with emotional and behavioral needs so extreme that they needed lots of TLC to be adoptable. This was Myra shortly after her arrival.
So fearful were they, that they were transported directly from crate to kennel when they first arrived. Sunday, Myra – now Kono – departed with her new humans,
just as Tag (now Max) did a couple weeks ago.
And – if you can keep a secret for a day – Roger, too. He went home as foster-to-adopt…adopt being the operative word!
That leaves only Lena, who still needs a little more support.
But she has found a confidence-building playmate in Cooper who is helping her come out of her shell.
And this week, we received two new puppies (my little man, Beau, packed his bags and headed for home). Both have Megaesophagus – or expansion of the esophagus. In their case, likely hereditary.
Dogs with Megaesophagus will suddenly start regurgitating undigested food soon after eating. As they lose weight, they are at risk. So I will hope that, once again, we can do the impossible.
“The difference between the difficult and the impossible is that the impossible takes a little longer time.” ~Lady Aberdeen
I double dog dare you to tell us we can’t.
Gardens For Goldens 
I think Myra’s story will contribute a lot. I have a good Korean friend, who is a (real) Christian; caring, considerate, very well disciplined, and a great person in general. I was shocked when I heard him comment about dog meat market; that he said “those dogs are not like other dogs, like, they are not cute or friendly, or anything.” And he was completely sincere in saying that.
You know it is not true, and we should know why ‘those dogs’ are not friendly. But it was not something that could be discussed further at the time. You cannot try to explain to the people who believes one thing as a part of their culture. But dogs like Myra can show the difference. And I think your work is wonderful. Thank you.
I sincerely hope you are right, Maiko – that by helping others to see these beautiful creatures for what and who they are, that we can begin to change hearts and minds. Thank you.
You made me smile/cry/and goosebump all at once!
I will say it again~~you do wonderful, wonderful work with these babies, no matter what their problem. Just amazing work. Thank you all and God Bless.
Thank you, Carol!
Awww. 🙂
Fantastic the work you do…Benn is a rescue as well, so I have just a tiny idea of how challenging some cases must be. btw a wonderful garden 😊
Thank you for rescuing, Benn! There are challenges, but the rewards far outweigh them. And thanks for our note on the garden. 🙂
We had a dog with Megaesophagus almost last stage. As per Doctor, his survival period is one month. Doctor and we put lot of effort, he survived for one and half years with Megaesophagus. It’s really tough and challenging task. You are really great..Thanks for sharing!!!!
Thank you for your devotion to your companion. We’re trying out some new tactics…will keep you posted!
Y’all specialize in the impossible. I have faith.
Right back at you. 🙂
I would think the non believers would have decided by now to not underestimate the power of caring volunteers. They win every time. 🙂
I’ll bet on that! Thanks, Judy…and happy weeding!
Amazing, you all are miracle workers.
My heart is always full when I read your posts. What lucky dogs they are when they arrive in your care. Heartwarming stories of adoption and care.
And the garden. Well. It’s breathtaking, and inviting to all who visit.
Thank you, Alys! I hope you got some of the same rain that fell on us this weekend. What a special treat in May. The garden loved it! The dogs…not so much. 🙂
We did! What a rare treat for May, too. I enjoyed every drop along with the garden that is growing like gangbusters. Slinky, my aging, can’t see or hear kitty, insisted on being on the patio on her cushions, so I employed a vinyl garden cover to make her a tent. She looks so cute in there!
A perfect way to enjoy the rain!
Wonderful stories, Ogee. Will be pulling for the new puppies!
Thank you. So far, so good! 🙂