Success Story: Sammie (#491)

Adopted March 2004

With deep sadness, Golden Bond has learned some difficult news. Janet Wildish, a recent adopter, drowned in a boating accident over Memorial Day weekend. Janet and her husband Brian had adopted Sammie this past March. Their happy adoption story appears below followed by words from Sammie's foster mom, Cathryn. The picture speaks for itself.

March 9, 2004

Sammie (#491) has joined the team of Brian, Janet and Wrigley in Tigard. What a story this is!! It all began with a very avid Chicago Cubs fan (Brian) and his lovely wife (Janet). When they acquired their first Golden Retriever puppy, it didn't take long to decide that his name needed to be Wrigley (as in "field" — home of the Cubs). Wrigley grew and developed into a wonderful companion. He proudly wore the Chicago Cubs collar Brian put around his neck. In time, Brian and Janet thought about adding a second Golden to their home. They had friends who had recently adopted from Golden Bond and learned from them about the application process. Forms were completed and a home visit done. Now the wait. Janet began searching the website almost daily, watching for just the right dog. She mentioned to Brian that a perfect name for their next Golden would be Sammy (as in "Sammy Sousa," famous member of the Chicago Cubs.) More waiting...

Then, one day, Sammie (#491) appeared on the "Goldens Needing Homes" page. Sammie had come a very long way from her days at an animal control shelter... dirty, scared, and leaning against the cage while big dogs barked and growled next to her. Golden Bond found a place for Sammie, even though she was not a purebred Golden. She was brought back to health and confidence, becoming a very beautiful, athletic, and trusted friend. Sammie settled into the hearts of her foster family. All too soon the time came for Sammie to find her own special forever home. Brian, Janet and Wrigley were looking for a "Sammie" all along, and when they met, it was clear where Sammie belonged. Now she and Wrigley wrestle and play together, and maybe even toss a ball or two. The team is complete, all players happy and healthy, ready for spring training and a summer of extreme fun.

Here is the team picture. That's Wrigley and Brian on the left, and Sammie and Janet on the right. Play ball!!!! Thank you Sammie for being with us.

A grateful foster mom

May 2004

Janet and Brian had kept in touch with Sammie's foster mom, sharing pictures, funny stories, and their pleasure in watching Sammie's growth. Janet loved her Sammie and Wrigley. Their bond was very special. Janet's words, sent in May 2004, express it best...

"...Sammie has been a real joy in our lives these past three months. She has found an instant companion in Wrigley. They get along famously. They love to wait for each other to go outside and play, and they sleep beside each other at night. Sammie has made a spot for herself in our backyard where she can watch people and pets through our fence. She is responding well to obedience work, and we are looking at classes soon. Like Wrigley, she aims to please. She is an absolute love.

Thank you so much for all you have done for her and all the other dogs you foster. Golden Bond truly makes a difference not only in Golden's lives, but in the lives of their forever families. Thank you."

The many individuals who are part of Golden Bond Rescue send caring thoughts to Brian, Janet's family, her many friends, and to Sammie and Wrigley who have lost a dear friend. We are honored to have touched and been touched by your lives.

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