Chi Chi #dogsinthedark

Last week I received the call from Monique at ARME about the arrival of Chi Chi, The Golden Retriever.  The internet had been overflowing with stories of this sweet girls horrific, terrifying and courageous journey. (Read the full story here at ARME's website:  http://armeteam.org/ditd2/  )

In brief, Chi Chi was found in a trash bag with her legs bound and rotting.  Forgotten, discarded, and seemingly worthless to the humans (and I use that term VERY loosely) who had no more use for her, Chi Chi surprised everyone with her indomitable spirit and will to survive.  The only way to save her life was to amputate all four of her legs from the elbows down. Chi Chi (meaning "loving" in Korean) being the brave and dogmatic soul that she is, not only survived, but was up wagging her tail and playing with a tennis ball the next day!  

I met the ARME team at LAX a few days later and, as usual, was giddy with excitement to meet this hero.  Chi Chi would be accompanied by Juyun (ARME's liaison in South Korea and all around amazing human being) and the honorable Dr. Lee (Chi Chi's vet).  Shannon Keith (fearless leader) is there and is already emotional.  She has put (as always) her heart and soul into this rescue.  ARME wants to put a stop to the meat trade not only in Korea and China but everywhere.  That even includes, if you can believe such a thing, the United States.  

The ARME crew and I spent the next 2 hours in LA rainy traffic but upon arrival at the house, karma was with us as the sky cleared and the sun, plus lots of loving people, welcomed Chi Chi to America.

But, before the fun can begin, we need a quick rewrap of a paw.  

Now, on with the fun!

The hardest part of this rescue was below:

Chi Chi, who had become connected to Dr. Lee, found her savior quietly weeping behind the van.  Bittersweet tears.  Happiness that Chi Chi has found a loving home and family and sadness that Dr. Lee will miss Chi Chi so much.  

We can't thank Dr. Lee enough.  A true gift.

Boots, from the last #dogsinthedark rescue stopped by to say hello, too!

As always, I am grateful to ARME, Shannon and Monique for including me in this rescue.  It never ceases to amaze me that ARME/BFP are unstoppable in their efforts to rescue all animals.  Rescuing animals isn't an easy job.  It can seem never ending, disheartening and depressing.  It's not for the faint of heart.  But, for those of you who do it and are still able to remain secure in your constant fight, my admiration for you is infinite.

Just look at the joy you bring to canines and "humines" alike.
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“When we can love through the darkest of dark places, we have truly transcended humanity and become omnipotent. Chi Chi is teaching me this every day.”
– Shannon Keith, President & Founder, ARME
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