The county notified Holly Hamel, Dog Adoption Chairperson of Indian Rivers Humane Society, King William, Virginia, about Baby’s plight. Immediately, Holly sent out an e-mail plea asking for someone to provide temporary shelter until a disposition could be determined.

That’s when Marcie Lewis responded. “She opened her heart and home,” Holly told us. “I can’t thank Marcie enough for taking responsibility for this dog. Most people would have said to just put her down but she thinks she can give Baby a peaceful happy last couple of years.”

And, indeed, she has. Weighing in at only 30 pounds upon her arrival to her new home, Baby began a healing journey with Marcie’s devotion and patience. Testing positive for heartworms, whip and hookworms and a urinary tract infection, Baby also suffered from severe arthritis of the spine and joints. She was also deaf as a post. Barely able to stand and walk when she left the pound, Baby was also uncomfortable with human contact, shying away when Marcie would try to pet her.

But what a difference two months can make! Now weighing nearly 40 pounds, Baby receives regular depo injections for the arthritis. Her urinary infection, whip and hookworms are gone. The heartworms are being monitored.

Baby dances and prances, asks for attention, and loves her walks. Marcie reports that she had to purchase a retractable leash so Baby could run/walk at her own pace!

But, as you can imagine, Baby’s road to health was expensive. That’s why Holly Hamel asked The Mosby Foundation to assist Marcie with the vet bill. And, of course, we did. It has been a real joy to watch Baby’s health blossom.

Baby’s previous owner has been cared for as well. She is now in a nursing home. And her family has relinquished the dog to Marcie’s care. The Mosby Foundation was glad to offer a second chance to Baby. And Marcie was quite willing to make it happen. Now an elderly dog can live out her sunset years peaceful, happy and loved. And Baby? She says thank you everyday when she lifts her head to Marcie’s loving touch.