Stitch

by Hilary
(PA)

We have a labradoodle and an almost 7 year old daughter. We brought our labradoodle home when they were both 4 months old. Tie is everything one could wish for in a large dog. The one thing he isn't is small.

Three years ago my daughter would talk endlessly about her desire for a small playmate. My husband and I began our secret adventure. We eventually met a small, emaciated, matted, and bruised little fella at a local no kill shelter.

Considered to be a poodle/bichon mix and approximately 3 years old, he was barely clinging to life. He had found his way onto a guardian angel's porch and she took him to the shelter. He was badly hurt with his spleen externally exposed and attached to his skin and fur. He was skin, bones, and matted fur.

The folks at the shelter had access to a doctor who was able to remove the spleen and address other concerns. When we met Stitch, he was stitched from neck to tail and as a white dog, his underside was completely bruised and black.

It was love at first sight! Stitch remained at the shelter for 10 days in order to heal and be cleared by the doctor. Our daughter named him "Stitch" because he was covered in them! She still tells his story to anyone willing to listen.

Three years later and Stitch has been a true gift to our family. I'm not quite sure who got luckier! He has spunk, personality, an endless supply of love to give, and wonderful health. He is an indispensable member of our family and is loved by all (including the labradoodle)! Never underestimate the value of a shelter dog.