Q is for Quixotic

As the word "distemper" keeps echoing in my ears, I find myself wondering if the fight for this one dog is worth it. Am I reaching out to all of you and singing her praises, posting adorable photos and pleading for help, getting your hopes up that this one dog is destined for safe travels and fortunate futures?

Suzie Q is slightly worse today. Her eyes are goopy now and her nose is still runny. Dr. Curd sent the titer test off to see if we are actually dealing with distemper, but they symptoms are looking more like this horrible virus daily. I remain hopeful because we caught it early and she has been on antibiotics and under wonderful care since she became symptomatic.

Quixotic is (besides being one of my all-time favorite words) defined as: foolishly impractical especially in the pursuit of ideals; marked by rash, lofty, romantic ideals or extravagantly chivalrous action. (http://www.merriam-webster.com). The root of the word comes from Don Quixote, the overly imaginative, but "extravagantly chivalrous" self-appointed knight.

I have to ask myself, "is that me?" Am I fighting for Suzie because I want this victory? The answer, I have to admit is yes...and no. I want this victory. i do. I can't work at a high kill shelter without the victories. I try to focus one by one on the dogs and cats I can get out of there. As volunteer coordinator, it's not in my job description, but it is part of my job. It's everyone's job that works there to get as many out alive as we can. So, yes, I want this victory.

But, I need this victory for Suzie more than I want it for me. If you met her, you would understand. Suzie looks at you like she knows you. She approaches you slowly, her tail swiftly wagging. If you sit in front of her, she'll look you in the face, reach up with her nose and give you a kiss, softly. She makes you feel like every bad thought you have is forgiven, every wrong you've done is washed away. You can trace the bite marks on her nose and wonder what kind of abuse or neglect did she suffer? If she was merely a street dog fighting for every mouthful of food and warm place to sleep, how could she be so loving, so gentle, so forgiving of humanity?

This is why Suzie deserves her 2nd chance. This is why this one dog out of the hundreds at ACS deserves this special treatment, needs the donations and especially the prayers. She has something truly special to give back. She has a story to tell - one that will cross borders and touch many hearts.

So, hang in there, Suzie. You are worth it and we're not giving up on you.