Day 23 - "Who saved who?" challenge

Today I have a truly wonderful story to share about our feature dog Jillie.  This story comes from dog-mom LeeAnn, a long time family friend.  LeeAnn has also been an amazing supporter of my art!  Here is what LeeAnn had to share:

"Jillie was born on November 7, 2005 in a puppy mill north of Mitchell, Ontario. Following her birth she was rescued by Kismutt Dog Rescue. Only Jillie and her sister survived from this particular litter. During this time our family had gone through many wonderful changes - our baby, Rebecca, was born on in July  2005, we built a new home in the country (down the road from where Kathy grew up), our oldest daughter, Kiersten, started grade one and our middle son Brad was an active 3 year old newly living in the country with his Mom and new baby sister. My husband, Kelly, and I started discussing a new pup for a family possibly in the spring. However, I stumbled across Jillie's picture online and it was love at first site for all of us. I knew she was meant to be ours when her birthdate was the same day as Rebecca's baptismal day and my Grandma Dot’s (Hopson) birthday.

Jillie timidly joined our home in January 2006. She was very cautious about the type of floor she walked on and loved to snuggle with Kelly watching tv at night. Jillie slept by Rebecca’s playpen during afternoon naps (and has stayed by her side ever since).  Jillie ran the fields with Brad and through the bush and continues to explore when there is any type of activity outside.  If one of our children are away at a sleepover or an overnight camp Jillie will go  back and forth between Kelly and I worrying as she knows someone is missing their bedtime. I never would have dreamt nine years ago that our puppy would go to bed with our children (literally in bed with Rebecca) - if they are late going to bed Jillie starts pacing waiting for them! As soon as the kids go out to play Jillie is at their side - I truly believe she thinks she is their protector. Jillie rarely barks but she does whine if she needs attention or is worried. I honestly believe that this goes back to her early days in the puppy mill. I always know when someone has arrived at our home because Jillie starts to whine; if it is a friend at the door she greets that friend with a kong or ball for them to throw.  I can't imagine our life without Jillie!  She is the sixth member of our family!"


Wow! I'm speechless...  What a dog!!  Thanks so much LeeAnn and Jillie!!

Jillie. Acrylic on wood, 6x8 inches.

Here is a special photo LeeAnn shared with me -- taken 9 years ago, when Jillie was still a pup.