Dog and Owner of the month - MAY 2010
This is Molly, an adorable St Bernard, with her devoted owner Christine.
In October 2009, Christine discovered that Molly had Glaucoma. Molly is only 6 years and Christine had an awful decision to make, but took the advice of their vet that Molly's eyes should be removed as they had become too painful for her.
Christine and her husband wondered how it would affect the quality of her life. But devoted owners usually have devoted pets, and Molly now hangs on every word they say. If they see her going to walk into any thing, they say 'No' and the dog immediately halts or slows right down, sensing what they mean.
Getting out of the van after her grooming session, Christine guided Molly down by talking to her only. She knew just what Christine meant.
A very special dog indeed.
Dog and Owner of the Month - APRIL 2010
This is a lovely story of a bond between a dog called Jacko, and his owner Sally, so strong it is truly inspirational.
On 12th September 2008 Sally and her Mum went for a drive to the North Clwyd Animal Rescue Centre in Trelogan, Nr Holywell. She was shown pictures of a few dogs but nothing jumped out at her. They asked what sort of dog she was after, and she said 'A scruffy mongrel who needs a good home!' They had just the dog!
It was love at first sight! The next day Jacko, a 2 year old crossbreed, was home. Sleeping in her bedroom (sometimes on the bed!), walked twice a day. Jacko never let Sally out of her sight!
Sally has a medical condition which can mean she's quite poorly at times and this March had to go into hospital for a very serious and risky operation. Sally cried her heart out when she left Jacko. On March 3rd Sally went into hospital for a week - Jacko was often found outside Sally's bedroom crying.
A week later Sally returned home, very frail, but she and Jacko were reunited. Jacko was so pleased to see her he shook like a leaf and constantly licked her hand - he intinctively knew that he musn't jump up.
5 days later, Sally took a turn for the worse and was taken back to hospital by ambulance. Jacko, once again, was seperated from his best friend and started chewing cushions, something he had never done before.
Sally is once again back home, and Jacko is her constant companion and her inspiration for a speedy recovery.
Sally says, 'The one thing that has kept me going and gives me something to aim for is Jacko. I can’t wait to take him for walks and enjoy the summer with him. For the time being though, we’ll just stick to relaxing on the sofa together.'
'For anyone wondering what type of dog Jacko is, the only breed we know if definitely in him is a Bearded Collie. Looking at him, we have guessed that he probably has a bit of Lurcher and Border Terrier in him. I love my mongrel!'
Sally and Jacko live in Dodleston