Thankfully, I didn't know any better at the time... Me and a cherished rescue colleague went to the wall to ensure Sunny's safety. I cannot remember the name of the local woman who helped us or her coordinates... But she was so totally cool.  I know today, she would be deeply satisfied about the outcome of her advocacy.

I've asked through the years, of course, via your sister, how Sunny was doing. I knew her to be 1000% safe and happy with you. You gave her what she constantly cried out for, for her first 2 years: companionship, food, comfort, love, warmth, a true identity, a family to call her own. Somewhere, where she would be genuinely welcomed and celebrated, instead of abused and shunned. She used that insistent little voice of hers, to call out, and keep calling out for help. Thankfully, she was heard. 

I was so very grateful to you both for providing her a loving home. I was SO new to rescue at the time. I did not know then, what I know now about rescue: it's a PROCESS; there are judgment calls to be made; there are deep, trusting relationships to be developed; there can be a happy ending if you stay the course, work the relationships and work smart: secure the animal; rest; things will fall into place. That's what Sunny taught me; and the learning has been applied to the benefit of so many others, since.

We all stayed the course. I thank you from the bottom of my black Irish heart, for what you did for Sunny, and for me. We are family. And we always will be. Rest in peace beautiful little one. I'm so very grateful that you got to become the dog you were always meant to be.