It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our dear angel Finley on September 16th.

Smokey was Finley's real name but we couldn't post that as our boy was a cruelty case who came to use in the Spring of 2008. Smokey had been in a small town shelter where they feared for his safety and asked for us to 'get him out of town'. His condition was so bad that the shelter was going to euthanize him but I asked for just a chance to help him.

'Smokes' came to live with me and the process of healing began at the ripe old age of 13. He was neutered and his teeth cleaned, he was put on medication to kill the demodex on his skin. Smokey's system was so weakened from years of neglect that demodex would be a constant battle for us but as you can see from the pictures, we were able to get that boy back to being a handsome lad over time.

Smokey was much loved in our home as our very own 'Cranky Pants' and knew he was loved, too - often coming to rest his head on our laps and get kisses and hugs. Finally, after Pooh died, it seemed Smokey finally gave up the fight and went to the Bridge, in my arms, on September 16th. We'll never forget you my Old Boy......we miss you.

Love Roz and Kayla xoxo

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UPDATE!!!

While taking time to smile for the camera and smell the flowers, Finley, has come SUCH a long way with the love and care from his foster mom Roz. With a steady supply of good food to eat, and ANYTHING else he can get his paws on, and a warm place to sleep, his weight will continue to increase. Look at his coat! From bare skinned and incessant painful itching, to a soft, thickening re-growth of gorgeous fur that has almost caught up to his original length around his mane. We are so proud of his will to fight and get well! Stories like these make all the work we do in rescue so worthwhile.

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Finley's Story

This poor boy was apprehended by cruelty officers from a very neglectful situation and came into the care of Hopeful Hearts. This boy is 13 years old and has had a very difficult and sad life up until now. We were unable to tell what type of dog he was as he had torn out most of his fur because he was itching so badly. Also, this affected his appetite and was significantly underweight. It was considered that he should be euthanized to end his suffering but with medical intervention, we were able to control his itching, treat the problem and he started eating like a horse and hasn't stopped!! Finley still has to undergo dental surgery (if he is ever well enough) and we are hoping to have this done sometime this summer.

Guardian Angels Taryn and Ian have generously donated to Finley's medical care and we hope that in a month or two (perhaps more), this boy will be able to be adopted into a home that will love him for whatever time he has left.

His Guardian Angels named him - Finley - which means Fair Haired Soldier - which is quite appropriate as this fellow has had to fight to survive.

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Finley Upon Arrival to Hopeful Hearts Rescue June 2008