Cassie came into our care at the age of six after being surrendered to a local veterinary clinic.  She was in pain due to large bladder stones and she was in desperate need of surgery to remove them.  Cassie's family was unable to afford the cost of her medical treatment and they were planning to euthanize her.  Thankfully, the vet clinic called us to see if we could help.  Cassie was an amazing little dog who deserved a second chance at life and happiness.  She recovered nicely following her surgery and after being treated for a subsequent bladder infection, she was ready for adoption.  Because this was Cassie's second case of bladder stones, she needed to find a new home where she would be strictly maintained on a specialized diet and where she would receive careful, ongoing follow-up to help prevent more stones from forming.  Cassie found an incredible forever home with a wonderful gentleman in Victoria who is committed to providing her with any medical care that she might require in the years to come.  Her new dad is retired and he has lots of time to spend with her.  Cassie has a bright new future ahead of her!

***An update from Cassie’s dad:

"We are having a wonderful time.  Cassie loves people, dogs, cats, kids.  She is learning to trust me and although she doesn't play yet, I am sure she will.  Cassie is also very brave.  No loud sound or movement causes her to shy away.

We visited Bosley's for apparel and accessories.  Since she is a (natural) blond, I decided that black would permit her to go to the most parties over the holiday season.  Dress it up with pearls and down with a scarf.  She is getting quite a collection of tags.  She wears her 'furever' tag, city license and an engraved tag giving our phone number."

"Who would have thought that I would have such a wonderful dog?  I have had dogs before in my life but never one that is as balanced as Cassie.  The only woof I have heard is when the church bells started tolling (maybe three woofs) and no barking.

Have you ever known a dog who will allow her paws to be cleaned without any fuss?  Cassie waits patiently while I take off my outer clothes.  Then I clean her up.  I usually get licks after.

I find it difficult to put into words how much I appreciate her company and affection.  Thank you for your adoption process that led to Cassie's adoption."

"Cassie has been with me for a month plus.  She continues to be unreal.  She is great fun and has started playing with her toys, fetching and tug-of-war.

We go to Dallas Road and she runs ahead a few metres then turns around and dashes back to see me.  You are right, her feet go east and west and her bum tries to catch up with her front feet.  She makes up to people and dogs alike.  Nearly everyone stops to pet her.

Through no fault of hers I am still working on teeth brushing.  Grooming continues to be a delight. More often than not she falls asleep and is indignant when awoken.  She needs a bath so I am glad that she tolerates the hair blower.

All in all, we are having a wonderful time.  She is loving and attentive, happy with her life as I am with mine.  People comment how calm and affectionate she is.  My worry about a small dog had been that it would be high strung.  I couldn't have been more wrong with Cassie.

I hope that you and all yours have a happy holiday and I wish you all the best for 2011."