Sometimes there is a dog whose purpose in life goes beyond being a companion. Libby was just such a dog. The first nine years of life for Libby were highlighted by litter after litter of puppies that sapped her strength and nutrients but not her captivating personality. Her irresponsible owners kept her tied to a tree in the backyard as they selfishly made money off her pups. She and her partner Diego had no shade or water and were horribly emaciated. Fortunately for Libby a neighbor took pity and called for animal control, cruelty charges followed.

These events eventually brought Libby to Recycled Rovers. Diego rebounded quickly and is now enjoying for the first time the love of a caring family. Libby improved and Recycled Rovers was elated that she seemed to have found a forever home. However, even our best laid plans sometimes fall short. Despite several home visits and numerous follow up calls the new owner failed to live up to the responsibilities of a dog owner. On the day of Libby’s spay appointment her new owner drove her to the facility in the trunk of his Grand Am! How inhumane people can be! The new owner knew her past but continued the abusive behavior. Needless to say Libby’s adoption was voided and she was taken back into the fold.

Libby’s spay appointment did not go well. She had difficulty coming out of the anesthesia and never could regain the vitality she had prior to the surgery. Dr.Wooding captivated by her personality said she needed some extra TLC as she was a “sweet old lady.” Libby developed signs of Erhlichia and in the months following her surgery she would have spells of high fever. Medication helped and she always seemed to improve. All of these illnesses were a direct result of her former owner’s failure to care for her properly. She went through Christmas at her foster family’s home where she brought peace and unity to their pack of fosters. The bond between the family and Libby was growing with each new day.

Several months after living with her foster family Libby became injured in simple play with her foster siblings. Due to the erhlichia Libby’s blood failed to clot. Her foster mother - Connie spent the night awake with her on the floor, Ruben our Operations Manager did everything he could to make her comfortable through the night. Before Libby passed over the bridge she gracefully lifted her head and gave a final kiss to Connie. In her last moment on earth Libby thought only to show love in spite of all the neglect and abuse she was afforded in her life time.

In rescue we often encounter dogs just like Libby. They teach us so much more than love, they teach us commitment, forgiveness and trust. They give us hope in hopeless situations. It is because of the many Libby’s in this world that rescuers everywhere continue to save animals.

Libby’s Garden is a memorial to all those wonderful dogs that supply us with hope. Please help us continue our goal of saving the many Libby’s in the world. A small donation to Libby’s Memorial in honor of your constant companion helps us continue our mission. It will also help to support the Memorial Garden at the shelter where prospective adopters can meet and walk our shelter residents in a peaceful environment.