Our volunteers were shocked to the core, when we picked up 4 large breed adults from the local pound. Dumped there by a previous owner, no poundkeeper present, all were frightened, filthy, so matted by their own feces and urine their skin was pulled into the heavy mats.

Upon vet check they were found to be flea infested/ear infected/emaciated/full of parasites...

From the vet to a groomer, these poor animals experienced a very long, stressful day before arrival at separate foster guardian homes. Brooke, Brie and George were soon sleeping soundly, sweet young dogs finally safe from neglect.

Clarice arrived at home and not 15 minutes later began to whelp the first of 9 puppies. Even the vet had missed her full term pregnancy, preoccupied as we all were to get them treated and to safety.

As starved as she was, Clarice from the birth of her first pup, exhibited the skills of an expert mother, totally involved in the healthy whelp of her pups. She cared for her litter with optimum nurture, until her pups were fully weaned.

Called out Little Freedom fighters, all were named for heroic personalities. Only little Martin Luther experienced serious failure to thrive. 10 days of daily supplemental feedings, close supervision and against all odds, Martin Luther survived, finally regaining to catch up with his 'sibs' by weeks 4-5.

In the meantime, Brooke, Brie and George found new loving adoptive homes. At 8 weeks of age the Freedom Fighters were posted for adoption and soon found their new homes.

Clarice on the other hand, had many weeks of convalescence ahead of her. Given her intake condition and the stress of nurturing her large litter of babes, Clarice had still not returned to her normal weight. Appropriate digestion was an issue, as many dietary regimes were employed to eventually correct poor enzyme levels needed to absorb her nutrients.

A favourite 'child' in her foster guardian home, her intelligent, affectionate nature won over every person she met. A playful, easy going spirit, she was a privilege to care for. Once returned to the health and vigor she always deserved, this young girl too found a very special family of her very own.

Clarice, Brooke, Brie, George, Buffy, Fossey, Obama, Joanie B., Martin Luther, Maya, Oprah, Annie Mae and Obi were undoubtedly one of the most heart wrenching "intakes" to HART volunteer homes. The gratification of caring for them, seeing them on their way to well being and responsible care in lifetime homes of their own, is the validation needed to  refresh the often weary but stalwart rescue heart.