Guilt By Association

Written by a CP Intakes Coordinator

Recently a Col. Potter member was contacted about a cairn terrier in need of help. She notified Intakes and contact was made to get more information about the situation. The story that unfolded was sad and hopeful at the same time. Here's the two tales of Wylie!

Wylie, a healthy, happy, 19 pound, 2 1/2 year old cairn enjoyed life with a cairn brother (real or adopted we don't know). They had a family, a home and received vet care. One day Wylie's brother bit the family toddler - we don't know the circumstances only the outcome. Wylie and his brother both ended up at a kill shelter. Wylie's brother was euthanized - the shelter had no choice due to local law. Owner surrenders taken to kill shelters may be euthanized at any time - there is no hold time as there would be with a stray. Wylie saw his brother taken away never to return leaving him confused and alone. As if that wasn't traumatic enough, the shelter had a widespread outbreak of kennel cough. Even though Wylie had been vaccinated, he became ill with kennel cough. Wylie was very unhappy at the shelter and expressed his displeasure. Wylie became in danger of joining his brother at the rainbow bridge. The shelter breed placement coordinator believed Wylie was a good dog not adjusting to his circumstances. She found a guardian angel to take care of Wylie until rescue help could be found. This guardian angel contacted the CP member which brings the story full circle.

Wylie's angel nursed him back to health, helped him brush up on his leash techniques and his command skills. Wylie's guardian angel reports that Wylie is a pretty mellow fellow once in a home. He's smart, sweet and loves to cuddle. His main vice is digging for pesky moles with true cairn determination. As we celebrate Wylie joining Col. Potter, please take a moment to remember his brother who wasn't as fortunate. If you know of a cairn in need of rescue, please go to Rescue Information on www.cairnrescue.com and complete the Report a Cairn in Need form. You may be saving an innocent life.

Wylie is looking forward to a new family and a new life. Thanks to all of you and Col. Potter, Wylie has a second chance!