Rusty Remembered

Its been approximately four and one half years since I first came across Rusty. While going to fellowship services one beautiful February morning, there appeared on the chapel grounds the most distressed looking Chow I have ever seen. He was terribly emaciated, frightened and untrusting. Probably he had been abused, neglected and abandoned by some uncaring person at one time in his life, or perhaps he had always been a “dog of the streets”.

As I cautiously approached him, I noticed what little coat he had left was terribly matted, and lesions covered his entire body, causing uncontrollable itching, bleeding and pain. When I gazed into his big brown eyes, I saw the forlorn look of loneliness and despair. But I also sensed within him a deep spiritual soul begging him on and telling him “you’re going to be okay, my friend”. Tears welled and my heart went out to him. It was in that moment I realized that this sad and fearful animal somehow reminded me of my own unhappy, tortured childhood and I became determined to do all I could to give him a second chance at life.

Rusty continued to hang around the chapel grounds day after day as if he knew the dear lord would work through someone there to give him that second chance at life. I became that someone, bringing him food, water and pats on the head daily for the next month or so. Whenever I arrived he was anxiously waiting for me. The bond between us became inseparable.

Rusty was finally picked up and taken to the local animal shelter, and with the help of my canine rescue friend, Sharon Levy, released and hospitalized for long term medical treatment and rehabilitation. Rusty became one handsome, healthy Chow with a “teddy bear” face and a delightful personality. Sadly, the pet regulations of my community kept me from adopting him. Consequently, Rusty was taken to the desert humane society’s Orphan Pet Oasis, an extraordinary “no Kill” sanctuary in North Palm Springs, California, where he will happily remain until he is adopted or goes to “doggie heaven”. Meanwhile this wonderful canine has become my very special “pet away from home”.

I visit Rusty as often as possible, to play with him, give him some goodies and take him on long, brisk walks. He is always excited and happy to see me, as I am to see him.. This wonderful “born again” Chow has taught me so much about unconditional love and trust, but above all, about being grateful. Thank you Rusty, my friend. May God bless you and keep you well. You will forever be in my heart and thoughts.

Mel Salvat
Cathedral City, California