Tuesday, September 13, 2011

The Arrival of a Girl Named Riley

~Toby celebrating the return of the internet! ~
As you can see, our internet (and our land-line) have been repaired and I can once again step away from my world and take a peak into yours.  I've really missed reading about what you're up to and I look forward to catching up!  

It has been a busy few days and there has been a lot going on.  I was asked by the rescue on Friday if I would consider taking a new foster dog.  I have to be honest and say that I've really been trying to cut down on our expenses and decided to not take in another dog.  I'd received a mass e-mail from the rescue earlier in the week asking all the foster homes to consider taking an eight year old girl named Riley.  What first caught my attention was her having what could be considered a 'boy name' like our beloved Rudi, and Reggie.  But Riley had some 'special needs.' And as I read the e-mail about her, knowing foster homes are at a premium, I remember hoping that the rescue would be able to find a place for her.  I then forgot about Riley until I was asked specifically if I would consider taking her.  Not being able to say no of course I agreed.

Riley's story is of course a bit of a sad one.  Her family lost their home.  Unable to care for her, and unable to take her to the apartment that they were moving to, they contacted the rescue. Times were really difficult for this family, and another dog that they had, a Papillon died from heart-worm.  Riley had not been to the vet since 2007.

~This is how Riley stands~
Among some other issues, Riley is handicapped.  She is lame in her hind-limbs.  As you can see in the picture, she has a slumped posture and is unable to fully extend her back legs, walk or stand normally, and can't even be taken for a walk.  Stairs are very difficult.  Riley needed a home that was easy to navigate inside and out and on one level, a house like ours. I picked her up last night, and she's a nervous wreck.  She is pacing and panting and is so confused by what is happening to her that she won't settle down or eat, and has barely paid attention to the other dogs.  It's times like this that I wish I could just tell her that she's going to be okay.  But all I can do is give her lots of reassurance that hopefully she'll soon understand.

At the moment, Riley does not have a lot of 'outer beauty'  like Sheba or Reggie.  She has a severe overbite and because of the poor condition of her coat, she was shaved down completely.  Her eyes and face are full of worry.  However despite what's on the outside, I'm finding is that she has a kind heart and gentle personality.  For some reason, I'm finding myself humbled by her this morning.  I am hoping that the rescue will allow her to be seen by an orthopedic surgeon to see if anything can be done to help her.  I am hoping that I can make a difference for a girl named Riley.
~Riley~

59 comments:

  1. Oh my gosh! You are already making a difference to this beautiful girl. She has such soulful eyes. I know she's in the best home possible. Hugs to you both.

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  2. Riley looks like she knows she is about to embark on the happiest part of her life .

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  3. I hope that Riley settles in with you and that you can finally get her the help she needs and deserves!

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  4. Just by you taking her in is making a difference for her. I hope everything goes well for sweet Riley ! Have a good day !

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  5. Just being with you will make all the difference. I too, hope that she can be helped, but your love alone will do so much!

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  6. Gosh Kim, you always make me cry. Riley is a sweetheart... and you, Kim, are one of the most beautiful people I've ever known!

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  7. Ahh....Riley is beautiful and so lucky that you are looking after her. Lots of TLC and you will see a different dog before long...that darling worried little face in the photograph is so appealing. All credit to you for the work you put into all your family of dogs.

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  8. I bet the other dogs will tell tell her she hit the jack pot coming to your home!

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  9. You will win her over Kim, if anyone will make a difference in her life it will be you.

    I think she's beautiful.

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  10. I give her about 48 hours of being with you before she stops pacing and acting nervous. She will know she is loved and once she relaxes, then you are in for a world of love,as you have experienced many times before.

    You are such great angels.

    Bert and My Vickie

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  11. What jodistone said. God Bless. ♥

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  12. You humble me. And, of course, you will make a difference for Riley. Soon, she will settle a little, and feel the love and peace that exists in your house, and that alone will help. She has a lovely expression in those eyes, doesn't she?

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  13. Poor Riley! I hope there is something that can help her.

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  14. poor sweet baby. i hope she understands soon she is safe and loved.

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  15. Hi Kim,

    Boy I feel sorry for Riley. I do hope that there is something that can be done for her. She's certainly young enough that she could have many good years ahead of her. I'll look forward to hearing more about her as she settles in.

    I haven't really been blogging or leaving comments, but I have been reading. I hope Reggie is feeling better, I'm happy to hear Todd got into a *much* better puppy day care, and I'm glad you got your internet back! :)

    Take care,

    Carolyn

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  16. Kim, Again your Angel wings are springing up.
    Riley now has a chance for a good life and to be pointed in the right direction for help.
    We know how hard this is, and we also know what this can do to expenses, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

    Sheila, Bob
    Hamish & Sophie

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  17. Dear Riley, she won't yet know how lucky she is to be homed with you but I hope she soon allows herself to relax and settle in.

    She is a beautiful girl with such gentle eyes.

    Thank you for taking on this fragile little soul.

    xxx

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  18. I have added Riley to my prayer list Kim. She has such beautiful eyes, so full of spirit and it would be so wonderful if there was something that could be done for her bone condition.
    I wish I was there and could massage her and try to relax her, that always went over well with my pups, heck I wouldn't mind a good massage myself!
    Take care and know you and the crew are always in my thoughts and prayers.
    Tina xo

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  19. Welcome Riley. You are in a good place. I hope you feel better about everything soon :-).

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  20. Congratulations on another foster. Fosters are like a box of chocolates, you can't have just one. I think that is the quote...

    She will take a few days to settle in, learn her way around and then she will be sporting a new attitude as well as a new hair doo. Just don't let her see herself in a mirror for a while.

    Mogley G. Retriever

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  21. Riley is a lucky, lucky dog, and hopefully it won't be long before all the love and care that surrounds her now will begin to reassure her that she is in a safe place. You are a hero and a miracle worker, Kim, and I am filled with gratitude and admiration.

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  22. Hi, Her life will be forever changed because of the love you give. She is such a sweetie and know that once we relaxes she'll blossom. Sending lots of love and hugs to all of us.
    Noreen & Reggie

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  23. Oh Kim, Riley is so in need!! Bless her heart!!! It takes all kinds, doesn't it?
    God bless you sweet Kim!!
    You are an angel here on this earth!!!
    So far so good with Tinker!!!
    Glad you are back in Blogville!!!
    xx, Tinker & Fern

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  24. What a sweet face; exuding love.

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  25. Lucky Riley! I am so happy for her....that she found you Kim! It will be good to follow her progress now at your home. Give her a while.....she will respond.

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  26. Welcome to Riley! Did you get any history on why or how long her back legs have been this way? I imagine the vet will want to know. She has a sweet face and lovely eyes, she definitely needs you, Kim. I know you will do your best for her!

    XXX

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  27. even bare of fur... look at that beloved little face. she will not only survive.. she will thrive with your loving care. and she's young enough to be a playmate for todd when she's all well!
    oh kim,
    you are the most amazing person i've ever had the pleasure to know. you and ever-patient carl.
    if ever there is a heaven, you'll be there.
    love and total respect,
    tammy j

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  28. What a sweet dog......tears in my eyes darling..love from me...xxx...

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  29. Riley is so lucky to have you! You are definitely very special. :)

    Woofs & hugs, <3

    ~Bailey (Yep, I'm a girl!)

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  30. Woof! Woof! Oh KIM you are the BEST. Riley is a very lucky to be with you and the rest of the Golden Pines Gang. Oh what cute Golden SMILE. Sending the Gang of Golden PINES Lots of Golden LOVE n Woofs, Sugar

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  31. That poor baby. She must be so confused and wondering what she did wrong to be deserted by her family. I hope she soon relaxes and sees that she's in a good place. Good luck.

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  32. I've read your posts about the "new dog" coming to live with you, your concerns, and eventually, you and your puppy have a breakthrough and things come together. I'm sure this will be the case with Riley.

    You have such a big heart, Kim. Riley is so fortunate to have found you. :)

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  33. Kim, I agree with Sugar -- you are the BEST! And I know Riley will agree with us very soon!!
    - Anne

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  34. Kim,

    You are truly an inspiration. You *will* make a huge difference in Riley's life. I can see it in her eyes already in that last photo. I see the first sparks of trust.

    Please give Riley a gentle hug from your Colorado fan.

    KB

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  35. As you may know our Riley got his name from the Irish saying "Living the Life of Riley" as we wanted him to always have an easy, happy and good life.

    Your rescue organisaztion and you taking Riley in have given her the best chance of that. You are wonderful, and I know she has gone to a home where her life will be better for having met you.

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  36. Kim,
    Your heart is truly GOLDEN!!!
    Did you notice Riley's tongue is heart shaped? So sweet.
    She has found a great home and Todd will have another sister so to speak.
    I'm hoping you get some assistance to help with her disabilities because honestly the cost do add up and we all have to live.
    So sad the family had to give her up but it seems to be a daily struggle to keep a roof over your head and a pet.
    So Sad:(
    That's why you are a ANGEL!
    Happy journey's my friend.
    That's why I love your post's, such a inspiration every day.

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  37. I have no doubt that there is a special corner of heaven set aside for your kind soul. You are an inspiration.

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  38. Oh, what a sweetheart. You will make a big difference in her life. You are very special. Just that adorable face makes you melt. I wish i could hug her - I'm sending hugs.

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  39. It will be very interesting to watch Riley's progress now that she is at Golden Pines. Such a sad story. So lucky to have connected with you.

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  40. Oh, she has won the lottery coming to your home! You are truly one of a kind, Kim.

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  41. What a sweet face! That poor girl! I feel sad for any dog who loses a home, but especially for a senior. I really hope that something can work out and be done!

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  42. Hi Kim
    I do believe Riley will settle in and understand soon that she is being loved.
    Right now she is confused.
    Your home has so much love,, I know it will help her, and I hope the doctors will see her,, and help her.
    Sweet Riley,, you are so beautiful.
    We love you already
    love
    tweedles

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  43. Oh but look at that face! What a sweet heart. She is going to be loved so much while at your home.

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  44. Look at that sweet face and those deep, soulful eyes. She's going to be just fine, Kim. A little TLC goes a very long way.

    AROOOOF!
    Boondock and The Love Shack Pack

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  45. Riley may not have that "outer beauty" right now but in time she will definitely blossom while in your care.

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  46. Oh, Kim! No wonder you love Goldens so much; you have such a golden heart yourself. Paws crossed and blessings on Riley. Hope she soon feels safe and that there is some help for her poor back.

    Jed & Abby

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  47. Hi Kim
    Riley is in safe hands with you. Sending prayers her way so that she begins to heal both physically & mentally.

    Extra licks and woofs

    Nadine & golden Neeli

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  48. Bless you for taking in this sweet girl. With your loving care, I'm sure she'll feel much better soon. She has a beautiful face and will be "smiling" soon.

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  49. You already have made a difference....

    Sam

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  50. What a sweet dog. You are an angel for taking care of her. Hope she adjusts to her new home soon.

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  51. Aw. That sad, worried face.

    THANK YOU for taking her in.

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  52. It just occurred to me to wonder -- is it possible that she's in pain? The sad face, the panting.... :-(

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  53. You have a big heart Kim! Sending Riley hugs!
    xo Catherine

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  54. I am so happy for Riley that God has stepped in and brought her to you. Her life will only get better from now on.

    Already she has many new people who love her! I wish there was some way that I could help!

    Please let us know if there IS ever anything that we could do to help you care for your brood. Do you have to pay for all of their food and flea/tick/heartworm medication?

    You are an amazing woman. Soon, Riley will know that...

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  55. Kim, you make a difference for all the dogs you take. Don't ever doubt that for one minute. Riley has such a sweet face - she'll calm down soon.

    xo
    Lynn

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  56. Sending Riley a whole lot of love to wrap around her! Bless you and Carl for all you do! When I grown up I wanna be just like you (sshhhh don't tell my hubby) ;) Robin

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Speak--I really enjoy your comments! Thanks for stopping by today!!