Snapple was my third Westie adopted in 2004. I found Snapple at the Washington Animal Rescue League; a no kill center with lots of volunteers who play with the rescued animals in their care. I went there to help a friend choose a dog to be her companion. While my friend filled out papers, I wondered around and found Snapple in a kennel by herself. She was surrendered to the shelter because she was old: estimated to be 14 or 15. My heart melted and knew that I would be devistated if someone threw me away simply because I was old. Although this was a no-kill center, I could not stand the thought of this wonderful little Westie living out her remaining years in a cage. I adopted Snapple with the intention of putting her into the Rescue pool with Westie Rescue, Inc. The president of the organization refused her because of her age. I was appauled for this organization had plenty of money and resources to care for and place Snapple. I wondered when Westie Rescue, Inc stopped rescuing Westies. It was certainly clear that they became more selective and only rescued certain types of Westies. Thank goodness, Westie Rescue, Inc is not the only Rescue Group in the area.
I took Snapple home with me and she lived an additional 2 1/2 years in the lap of luxury. Her favorite place on the couch was next to the arm rest with her elbow resting in a sassy manner. She loved cuddles and carrots. Snapple is posing photo by herself with her fur dyed green for the Mardi Gras… Mardi Paws with the Mystic Krewe of College Bark 2006. She went on to the rainbow bridge www.rainbowbridge.com the following month. A proper lady always knows when to leave the room.
March 2, 2009 at 7:07 pm
I just read about Snapple and I am so happy that you rescued her! I have been raised with Westies my entire life and I cant imagine a world without them. My parents are down to their last one as their own age is making things difficult to care for a wonderful breed but I will be there for the next Westie to enter our lives. thanks for being a loving and caring Westie friend!
March 5, 2009 at 3:27 am
I loved your story about Snapple! These seniors are so very special to us. We’ve had several seniors pass through our homes since our formation in the summer of 2008. We recently rescued Perry; a 14 year old male that was dumped at the shelter because he was “old”. We are so very lucky to have this wonderful boy. Just this past week he has learned to tap the refrigerator door when his internal clock tells him its time for dinner! Thank you for taking care of our seniors!!
March 5, 2009 at 4:04 am
Thank you Karen, for your lovely comments. I still miss Snapple but I have some wonderful memories I would not have had if she had not been a part of my life. She was such a sweet cuddle muffin. Best wishes to you for all that you do with rescue in California. Vickie
July 17, 2009 at 4:40 am
Wow, I had seen Snapple on Petfinder and even begged my husband to let me adopt her (until i realized she wasn’t in Washington State).
I always wondered about her and prayed she’d find a good home. What a great thing to find her and the loving she got in her last few days.
Thank you for what you do for our wonderful Westies.