Mariah's story: In 2007, I had been searching for a canine companion to help fill a void in my life, then through PetFinders website I saw your precious face posted online from a local rescue. I checked site often until I decided "you were the one." At the time, you were in a foster home -- a farm, but because you didn't get along with other dogs you were kept in a barn separate from other animals and companionship. I went there to meet you and seeing you curled up in a corner of that barn, all alone, just broke my heart so I had to bring you home.

Because you didn't get along with others you were sent from place to place never knowing love or a real home for very long. You didn't trust humans and were very skittish so I believe you had been abused in the past. You initially displayed an aggressive personality which was a real challenge at times so I had to be patient and show affection; however, you also displayed a sweet demeanor that melted my heart. So after a month trial period in my home, in Nov 2007 at age 7, I adopted you from Fur Keeps Animal Rescue in Barrington Hills IL - giving you a chance to spend your remaining years in a warm and loving home. I made Mariah the promise that my home would be the last one she would ever know and I kept my promise until the day she left this earth. Our time together was cut short to cancer.

I remember how after signing the paperwork to make this your permanent home, your personality changed almost immediately. You went from displaying stress and restlessness to a calm and peaceful demeanor. I was amazed at this change; it's as if you didn't feel at home until I made that commitment.

You were such a precious girl with those big brown eyes. Even though due to a skin condition you had no fur on your chest, neck or on your legs, you were beautiful to me. In areas you did have fur it was so thick and you had spots with white fur and white on your toes; I would try to imagine what you would look like with all your fur.

For the time we were together you were often sick with stomach issues which I believed stemmed from nervousness but when you were well you had a good appetite and seemed to be happy in our home. Now that I reflect on these bouts of stomach issues, I wondered if it wasn't the cancer that was not realized until it was too late. You masked any pain well my precious girl until the last days -- when you were whimpering and would pace restlessly, it may have been the pain that had become intolerable.

When the vet ran tests and an x-ray your cancer was discovered and too far advanced. After the news, I took you home to spend a few hours with me to say good-bye. Though I'd been through this pain of loss too often -- it's never easy. I continue to miss you but often think back of all the smiles you brought into my life for a brief time. You'll never be forgotten Sweet Soul.

Please also visit Abigail, Alice and Sasha Joy.