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B.A. Lampman's avatar

Oh man. Our dog Dinah is a rescue from Mexico. Her litter was born near an active mine and the dogs had no human contact for the first two months of their lives. She has... issues. But we love her to pieces, and when there's no-one else around she has more personality than any dog I've ever met. When there are guests it's a different matter. When we got her, much like the Toots she was quiet and docile for four days. Then—BAM! I'm glad you have one of the Toots, but a bit sad they're no longer a team. Though I completely understand why.

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Kristine's avatar

Dogs from trauma areas are definitely a different bundle than the average rescue dog we have been involved with in the past. How lucky that Dinah has you! Omg, we were devastated that Toot and Oba had been split up, but perhaps in the long run it was a good thing. They had such different personalities and needs and being able to focus on just one dog fully does make it all a lot easier. Neither gets short changed, and both can envelope all the care and love coming to them.

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B.A. Lampman's avatar

Oh yes, I'm sure they're getting all the love and care they need, and more!

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Debra Skelton's avatar

Thank you for sharing your adventures with us, Kristine - the welcome moments, the challenging days, and all the shades in between - with refreshing honesty.

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Kristine's avatar

Thank you Debra. 🥰

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Kristine Weese's avatar

What a great story Kristine!! The dogs are beautiful and I’m so glad things worked out positively for you and another lucky family!

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Heather's avatar

A pawsitively lovely piece of writing ❤️ 🐾 Your honesty and obvious love for the Toots is refreshing & heartwarming.

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Kristine's avatar

We are so lucky you are part of Team Toot!

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Lisa's avatar

I hope your dad has recovered? And I couldn't think of anyone more capable of the love needed in supporting these dogs through their transitions. And, it takes a village <3.

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Kristine's avatar

Hi Lisa. It really does take a village! I am sad to tell you that my Papa died. It was his time, but damn, he is sorely missed. There was, and continues to be, some falling apart at the seams here. Onwards though, because that is the only option that resonates and values his generous nature and rascally disposition!

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Lisa's avatar

He will be missed, sending a mountain of hugs.

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Nicole Ardiel's avatar

Oh Kristine, I absolutely adored this! The way you describe the two distinct personalities, the reliance they have on each other, the lessons you learned. And the stunning photos! It all brought tears to my eyes, especially when I read that adorable Toot is now with you. Yes, heartbreaking to split them up, but they will both be loved. Life with a dog is the most precious thing. My favourite beating heart in the world is behind me on the couch right now--my beautiful little rescue from Alabama. He's been with me for nearly 12 years and I feel blessed each and every day.

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Kristine's avatar

Thanks so much Nicole! There is indeed something very unique about a rescued animal…the bond that forms is unbelievable. I had thought that I just couldn’t open my heart again to another dog on that level…how wrong was I?! 🥴. I am glad your hound found you, and you him.

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Shirley Weese's avatar

thanks for this Kristine, a very lovely piece. Rescue dogs are very different as I found out with Dulce. They are a challenge but so worth it, they end up being the best of the best!!

All the best to you and Toots!!

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Kristine's avatar

Aren’t they though? Not easy, but absolutely not a question about the worth of that friendship.

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