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by Jessica Wilson
Several months ago I joined Gateway Golden Retriever Rescue, primarily because I wanted to hang with all the dogs and because I wanted to help these animals find their “forever homes.” My family had always had Goldens. I had one when I was growing up and my dad had two — both passed away earlier this year, and now my dad has a new Golden puppy.
As part of volunteering, I agreed to dog-sit for one of the foster dogs. I thought it was a chance to get my “puppy fix” and see how my five-year-old cat, Gizmo, would behave with a dog in the house. Toby came to spend the weekend with us, and by the end of it I was sad to see him go back to his foster family. So I applied to become Toby’s mom, and a few weeks later I was approved.
I think Toby was meant for me — he looks a bit like the dog I had growing up, he’s small enough for my condo, and Toby was the name of my grandmother — a match made in heaven! He just melted my heart, and I felt so good about bringing an animal into my home that really needed the love of a good family.
Toby came home and began the process of bonding with the cat — not an easy task for anyone. Toby is great with Gizmo. He seems to know that the cat is the king of the castle, and he doesn't try to retaliate when Gizmo gives him a little whack to make him move out of his way.
Toby has quickly adapted to life in my home, with only a few challenges. Obviously, it’s never easy to acclimate a pet to a new home, but Toby is doing well. He’s had a few “accidents” in the house, but primarily because he gets so excited about new things. Also, he's learning to stay off the furniture, out of the trash can, not to jump on people, and how to heel.
Toby is very affectionate, but something his eyes reveal that he has difficulty trusting people. I’m not sure about his past, but it’s obvious he experienced harsh treatment. Toby is two years old, and when the rescue group took custody of him he was only 38-pounds and had heartworms. He shied away from people and had sadness in his eyes. Sometimes, when I call him to me, he stands just out of reach and then slowly inches closer. If I raise my voice, even if it's not directed at him, his tail goes between his legs and he runs out of the room.
Toby’s getting better. He has a long way to go, but I know with my love he will arrive.
Stay tuned next month to find out the latest on Toby and his new life.
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