By Leonard Rizzo

Often I receive responses of gratitude from the families of the animals I’ve helped. I could never adequately express the warmth I feel in my heart when I learn one of my troubled kids is doing well. I will be super busy these next few weeks setting up book signings for A Voice in the Hills while still responding to animals in need when the situation arises.

Ruger was picked to go to Florida for final training for the SAP program (Service Animal Project). If you recall, all was well with him and he was anxious to fulfill his duty as a soldier companion.

Unfortunately, it was learned Ruger had hip problems and though I was willing to set up operations for him, he couldn’t be for the SAP program. My dear friend, Dr. Keith Allen at Upstate Veterinary Specialists, advised that operating would do more harm than good and Ruger will do just fine as is. After I told his story of not ever being rejected again, he was adopted at an animal fair by a visiting family from the Atlanta area.

This was my latest email from the great Burrus family, “Subject: Ruger.”
“Leonard, I saw your very kind article about Ruger in the Bulletin and thought I’d send you a quick update. I’ve attached some pictures as well. He’s doing really, really well.   He and Mac have become best buddies, have a shared contempt for squirrels and both enjoy swimming. He’s gained a ton of weight and looks super healthy. His coat has gotten thick and has a really nice sheen. He’s got tons of personality – as you’ll see from one of the pictures, he loves sleeping upside down against something. His general object of choice is a wall, but he’ll sleep against a sofa or a chair too. He makes elephant sounds when he yawns in the morning, and he’s got a huge appetite. He and Mac tug from time to time, and he loves sitting out on the patio looking at the Atlanta skyline. He’ll actually go out there by himself and stretch out on the sofa. We were in the country this past weekend and he mastered the art of swimming (we had a life jacket on him just in case).

On another note, we were getting a moderate response to Ruger, given that his whole thing is a fresh start. We’ve started calling him Henry. He responds to this new name incredibly well and really seems to like it. He was running all over the place this weekend, but came every time we called. He’s a good boy. He’s also a master at the art of elevator riding. All in all, I think he’s enjoying his new home. Cheers.”

Many animals that I’ve helped and grown quite fond of are never seen by me again.  They all remain in my heat and when I get a reminder email or letter, the smile never leaves my face. I will share one of my quirky sayings with you and perhaps you’ll understand:

“A smile is when someone or something fills your heart with so much joy, it spills over to your lips.”
Thanks for listening.
P.S. My first book signing will be at TJ’s Café, 456 S. Trade St., Tryon, on Sunday, June 28 from 8 a.m. till noon.

 

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