We received many cards and letters this holiday season from previous adopters. They were filled with family news, pet updates and various photos.

It’s always so satisfying to keep up with the animals that have come through our program over the years. We have been through a lot with our adopters and supporters — various moves across the United States and abroad, births, deaths (both pet and human), significant life events and just general day-to-day living. 

I received a great card from a family that has adopted three dogs from us over the years. They lost one recently to advanced age but the other two are in relatively good health for their age. This family is one of those who dotes on their pets giving them everything they need to be happy, healthy companions.

Then there are the special-needs dogs and cats we’ve placed over the years.

• The two deaf Cavalier King Charles spaniels from a breeding operation, which I placed years ago, are now therapy dogs visiting nursing homes and hospitals. I received a beautiful photo of them, with a card saying how these dogs had transformed people’s lives.
• Sweetie, the miniature schnauzer that was so mistreated and had all her teeth removed because of such neglect.
• The Westie pup that had his leg burned so badly from an unattended electric blanket in a breeding operation that we had to have it amputated.

It humbles me to know that there are such wonderful individuals out there willing to commit to their care with love and devotion.

There are so many animals that have touched my soul over the years, it would take a book to list them all. I feel fortunate to have had the unconditional love of all of them.

As I reflect on 2011, I think of the multitude of animals that have come through our home looking for that special family to love and care for them. I also think of the special people who have made such a difference in my life.

My husband, John Sweet, has always been my most staunch supporter during the past 25 years. He has been there through thick and thin — pulling ticks off dogs, giving baths, comforting abused dogs when they were afraid and scared, cleaning up vomit and poop, holding my hand when I cry as we lose one to the Rainbow Bridge, and ferrying animals all over the United States to vet appointments or their new families. He is a true partner in my endeavor to help animals.

My daughter, Ashley, is a wonderful, kind soul who cares for the welfare of all living creatures. She has contributed so much to their care since she was old enough to hold a puppy in her lap.

And of course my Happy Tails partner, Jim Johnson, who is one in a million. I have never met a kinder and more thoughtful person in my life than Jim. I feel privileged to have he and his wife, Glenna, in our Happy Tails family.

My life has been enriched. I am a better person because of the experiences I’ve had with Happy Tails.

Be thankful for what you have today — the individuals you love and the pets that share your life.

All of us at Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary wish each of you a happy, safe and healthy 2012.

Susan Hatfield is the president and co-founder of Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary. She can be reached at (573) 445-1680, or visit the Web site at www.htsanctuary.com.

Reach Susan Hatfield at 573-445-1680 .

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Tags : Pets
Categories : Uncategorized