It took time for my new family to realize the impact a puppy mill birth had on me. They first saw me in the cabin of a pickup parked near a rural intersection where they had arranged to meet my rescuer.  I was emotionless among a swirling pack of about 16 puppies of different breeds scrambling around outside the truck. We had just returned from a trip to be photographed for Petfinder.com after having been rescued from a breeder in Sedalia whose business had been shut down by the state.  At 11 weeks and 4 pounds, I was the runt of the litter.

I did not whimper, and I barely moved in the hour long drive home.  Within a few days, I was scampering through the house with my new playmates, a cat and old dog. But I still took my time getting to know them.  At night, I slept under the bed, my new safe den until finally I realized it was okay to sleep ON the bed! Still, I wake easily, unable to sleep deeply, because I am still vigilant even in sleep, uncharacteristic of my breed, but I make a good watch dog.

Within a few months of my arrival, I started beginning and ending my days with the customary Coton de Tulear affection, very liberally – and very insistently – licking my parents hands and faces.  I’m such a lucky dog to have such a good family!