On the Fourth Day of Christmas... Star

It seems like no matter what you do in life, it’s easy to fall into a repetitive schedule. As you repeat the same types of actions and events day in and day out, it’s easy to overlook some of the more significant things that happen. People ask us “what’s up” or “what’s new” and we often have no response. But then there are things that shake up our repetitive schedules and remind us of the important things. I guess life is that way.

For me, learning of the trials and tribulations of a Greyhound named Star was one of those things that put everything into perspective. Star has experienced some unfortunate occurrences in her lifetime since her retirement from the track. After being in an original home, she was returned when she was approximately six years old. After her return, she was adopted by a couple who provided her with an excellent home. Sadly, Star’s owners passed away within two weeks of each other in the fall of 2012. Their son understood that Star was an important part of the family and wanted to continue to provide her a wonderful home. But in addition to losing both his parents in a short period of time, he was also working to pick up the pieces from even more tragedy. His home had been completely lost in Hurricane Sandy; he and his family were living in temporary housing; and he was unable to keep Star. Star was without a home.

Knowing that his mother’s last wish was for Star to go to a home where she would be properly cared for, the owner’s son turned to REGAPCT. Being almost twelve years old, I knew that it might be difficult to find the right new home for Star. In addition to her age, she also has an autoimmune disease which is managed with monthly medication, which unfortunately makes caring for Star expensive.   

My heart broke when Star returned to REGAPCT. Some who are not dog-people will tell you that dogs do not have emotions. But those who are dog-people know a more untrue statement couldn't be made. Star was well aware of what had happened and she was saddened by the loss of her owners. Her sadness made it difficult for her to adjust to her new environment and it quickly became obvious that she needed to get into a loving home as soon as possible.

As fate would have it, an adopter showed up and decided to take her home on December 24th. It looked like Star would be in her new home for Christmas! Unfortunately, after only two days, she was returned through no fault of her own. After being returned, she was immediately placed with a volunteer who wanted to foster Star until another home could be found.

In her foster home, Star was now adjusting to her new environment. And for the first time in her retired life, she was enjoying the company of other Greyhounds. She was once again in a pack and was flourishing.

The term "foster failure" is something that sounds like it should have a negative connotation. In fact, "foster failure" is a very positive thing. It is the result of a foster family taking a Greyhound into their home and feeling such a deep affection for the dog that they can't let go of the Grey. With all that she had been through, I've known few dogs who needed such a failure as much as Star.  

Seeing Star blossom in her new home, running with the other Greyhounds and clearly enjoying herself, the volunteer decided to keep Star. Today she is living with four other greyhounds and continuing to display her personality day by day. She recently celebrated Christmas with her new family and is looking forward to celebrating one year in her new found home.

Knowing all that she has been through, it makes me smile to see Star in such a wonderful "forever home". And it's stories like hers that cause me to pause during my normal daily routine and realize that even through the darkest moments, light can still shine.