Entrant's First Name
Phyllis

Pet's Age
15

City
Nathrop

Pet's Story
Libby is a Chicago stray mutt, taken immediately before euthanization at the pound to a no-kill shelter, where we found her. She appeared to have no experience with a family even though she was a year old. She was terrified of everything for weeks, especially inside our house. A wild animal. On the streets she warned everyone away by serious barking and lip curling. With her independent personality and speed, she made lasting friendships with other Chicago dogs at the park. After about six months she began to calm down and develop confidence. Trainers marveled at her intelligence. Lessons were short because she learned so quickly. Agility was a breeze. Moving to Colorado where she could often run free suited her just fine. Here she stands up to bobcats and coyotes to "protect" her domain. Libby encountered a dog last year that attacked her and tore open her throat. Once free, Libby tried to go back and "kill" the attacker rather than run away. Family to Libby became the three of us. Visiting dogs are tolerated. She lets fosters know somehow that they will not stay here for long; they are not family. Since my husband's recent death, Libby devotes herself completely to taking care of me and keeping me safe. She doesn't want me out of her sight. At 15, Libby has slowed down as have I, but we continue to hike together, bringing each other joy in smells and sights and sounds and companionship. Libby has given us more joy than we ever imagined possible when we brought her home from that Chicago shelter.