Monday, March 2, 2009

What about Willis?


For the last 8 months, we have been trying to rehome Willis. He has been our loyal companion for 6 years - and it was with heavy hearts that we part with him. For those who know Mr. Willis, know that he is not the easiest animal - and finding him a new home has not been an easy task. The animal community really reached out to help us, but no one was ready to take Willis on and help rehabilitate him - which is fair. As my boss, Lori said - "He has been the perfect dog for you. It's making him the perfect dog for someone else that's hard."



As many of you know, we have turned many stones, and again as Lori said "You even made stones to turn over." (She's a smart lady, by the way.)

We want to thank two wonderful people who worked relentlessly in helping find Willis a new home:

  1. Annemarie - a volunteer at the Vashon Island Pet Protectors Rescue. She was kind enough to place an adorable ad on petfinder.com AND screen calls of those interested in meeting Willis. Through her, we met over 20 loving families.
  2. Emily - a local islander and experienced dog handler. She was essential in properly assessing Willis and being diligent in her search for resources. A few friends call her "The Govenor" because she has saved numerous dogs from unnecessary euthanization. Emily has also committed herself as "the back-up" if Willis' new family doesn't work out.
These women have been our hope in this long, arduous search - true guardian angels with volumes of compassion. Thank you ladies!

So tell us where Willis is already!

On Thursday, February 26th, we were at Blanche's house for dinner, and knew that Emily would be calling for the puppy transfer around 7:30pm. I decided to stay at Blanche's house, while Richie brought Mr. Willis. We thought if we both were there to see Willis off, it would be too stressful for him. I knew I would just cry and cry, and I didn't want Willis to see me that way - as it would make him nervous. I must admit, it would have been just too sad for me.


Richie said the transfer went smoothly, and it is quite a beautiful story.

We were instructed to park a few blocks from Emily's house. Emily would meet Richie and Willis about half-way down the street for the transfer.
We have experienced a few of these transfers with Willis before with other families... and it was very stressful for all of us, but this time was different and Willis was very calm the entire time. He knew what was happening.

Richie and Willis got out of the car, as Emily was walking up her driveway with a flashlight. She approached Richie and Willis, holding an Eagle Feather. She said it was from a mommy Eagle who had just cleared the nest for the season. It was an incredible sign (I get goosebumps just thinking about it!). For those who know Willis well, you think he would have barked, but he didn't. He sniffed Emily a bit, and then Richie, Willis, and Emily started walking towards Emily's house. As they were walking, Richie handed Emily Willis' leash, and Richie slowed down, turned around, and started walking back to the car. After walking 20 feet or so, Willis looked up at Emily, realizing she was walking him. He didn't bark or get overly excited, he just walked calmly. It was uneventful.

Richie hopped back in the car and headed back home. About 5 minutes later, Emily called. Quick side note here... In the past when we dropped Willis off at potential family homes, we received a call after 5 minutes or so asking that we come by to pick-up Willis. We thought this call was the same - to come by and pick Willis back up. Thankfully, it was Emily calling to say Willis was doing fine. Whew!


So far, Willis is still doing great - adjusting to life with Emily's 5 other dogs. He will stay with Emily as the search continues to find the perfect home for him. And the Eagle feather is in our car, bringing good luck and happy thoughts of Mr. Willis.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

I know how hard that was for y'all. We are just glad he is happy and safe. We love y'all and wish you safe travels!