May 14th 2011 9:24 pm
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"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." - Roger Caras

When I decided the time was right for a dog, the only choice I considered was adoption, I wanted to be able to give a forever home to a dog in need. I found Baxter on PetFinder in 2002 when looking to adopt my first dog. He was listed as a sato from Puerto Rico with “special needs” - he was emaciated and had a noticeable neurological twitch that shook his tiny body. He was the only surviving puppy from his litter and was definitely a fighter. We battled this unknown illness for almost two years, and during that time he blossomed into a strong, energetic dog – his twitch slowly disappeared, he put on weight and even participating in recreational agility! He likes nothing better than a walk in the neighborhood, or a ride in the car with his muzzle out the window. It is the simple things in life that Baxter appreciates most, forcing the humans around him to stop and appreciate those things as well.

Baxter's adoption connected me with rescue group in Puerto Rico, and we became involved in helping them through fund raising and public relations. We were able to assist several hundred dogs on their journey to their forever homes through our work, spreading the joy and love that comes from adopting a dog. We eventually adopted his sister, MacKenzie from the same organization.

In November 2008 signs of a physical problem began to appear. During the next six months his condition deteriorated rapidly as his puppyhood illness seemed to reappear, limiting the strength in his hind quarters which affected his mobility. After dozens of tests, a diagnosis could not be found. On his 7th birthday he received his mobility cart from Eddie’s Wheels and he quickly regained the freedom he had lost. Daily we meet people that have never before seen a dog in a cart, and Baxter shows them that life does not stop because of a disability – we must still have our daily romp in the neighborhood, and his “wheels” help him do that with ease.

When I adopted Baxter I simply wanted a dog to share my days with, but I never expected the gift I received. Baxter’s unyielding energy, happiness and willingness to accept life’s challenges continue to inspire me to greet each day with love and patience. We have come a long way together, and I am so thankful to share my life with this brave little dog with a big heart.

"You can't change the world by adopting an animal, but you can change the whole world for that animal." - Author Unknown