Thanks all for your words of comfort. All the dogs (and cats, ferret, hedgehog, gerbils, hamster, tortoise, birds) that I've sheltered over the last 40 years came to me as rescues or hand-me-downs. Nothing worse than someone getting a pet, then getting tired of caring for it once the novelty is gone or it needs a good haircut. My two daughters were the worse for "My mom will take it" when their friends got bored with their new pets. I am fortunate to have a vet for a good friend so I can get them care when necessary and rarely have to wait since I know where she lives. A few of my adoptees have special needs (like the pit mix who sounds like she wants to eat other dogs and small children and the UPS man) or the 35 lb vegetarian tortoise who only eats Romaine lettuce (pricey out of season) and can't be exposed to temps lower than 65 or higher than 90. ( Lived in a kiddy pool in my closet for many years -- now has a pen in the garage shop.) But nothing beats the companionship of a dog or cat. I never know exactly where my dogs have come from or what kind of care they did or didn't have before I get them (or more likely they show up) ...I don't even have a CLUE AS to what breed some of them are. Who can guess as to what they've been exposed to or what's been bred into them. But those little ones that cuddle up and follow you from room to room -- those are the ones that leave big prints on your heart. Unconditional acceptance on their part. If I can smile even once a day at their antics, I feel they have so earned their keep. Each one is unique in its personality and needs. I don't think I would survive long without their companionship.
Thanks for your offer, Robert, but I did accept a couple offers already, and I'm sure your plate is more than full with the holidays coming up. I'm still working on the maple leaf block, but am in no hurry to finish the quilt. You do so much for so many. I appreciate your thinking of me. Will take a raincheck on your offer for when things slow down after the holidays.