Sun 10th April: A day at the races

Thanks to everyone!

It wasn't my actual birthday today but it was celebrated in the usual generous Whiskers N Paws style, with cakes and champagne for the humans and lot of treats for the dogs (now happily munching at my feet), as well as lovely gifts for me from friends and volunteers.  So a big thank you to all, and see you same time, same place next year.

Fanta looks quite comfortable with her new foster dad

What with the rain and the rugby keeping adopters away we needed the party to boost our spirits, but at least new puppy Fanta found a foster home while current foster pup Syrup had her adoption confirmed.

Everyone loves this game of chase!

The rain died up long enough for guest photographer Peter Yuen to capture some great moments of the older puppies having their usual games of chase on the terrace, and even after so many years and watching hundreds of these races taking place it still makes me smile.  Today ex-HKDR puppy Ramsey came back to say hello, and he was more than happy to join in.  You can see all of Peter's photos on our Hong Kong Dog Rescue (HKDR) Facebook page once they have been posted.

Ex-HKDR pup Ramsey is welcomed

Just-taken Ap Lei Chau couple Mary and Joseph also had their adoption confirmed, their sweet and easy-going nature allowing for a quick decision, as well as the other resident dogs' acceptance of the new arrivals.

Leo's last photo taken just before he left Tai Po for the last time

There was sad news for another new dog however, as Leo had to be rushed to Acorn from Tai Po when he was found in a very poor state first thing in the morning.  He had come to us from AFCD with heartworm and apparent tick fever so we knew he wasn't in good health from the start, but a later call from Dr Tony indicated it was worse than first thought as Leo's kidneys were failing.  I asked for twenty four hours on fluids before making a decision, but as Leo's condition declined and I knew there was nothing that could be done I agreed to let him go.

As always we don't have any history about Leo and can only guess from his lovely and gentle nature that he had been someone's pet until being abandoned or given up.  There are so many dogs like him, so many sad stories of broken promises and betrayal even if on occasion the reasons for giving up are genuine. Leo didn't have a bad bone in his body and deserved better, but in the end nothing could save him.