Imagine encountering an animal in distress – would you find the courage to intervene? If so, how would you navigate the situation?
Here unfolds the tale of Kiva, a small dog whose life took a transformative turn.
Kiva, a vibrant puppy, found solace in the arms of an elderly couple who adopted him from a local pound. Unfortunately, due to health restrictions, the couple struggled to care for Kiva adequately. A playful moment by Kiva had gone awry leading to Kiva being confined to a small cage. This marked the beginning of a challenging chapter in his life.
My cousin traveled for work and during several visits to the couple's home, she noticed Kiva consistently in his crate on the front porch. Upon examination she discovered the crate covered in filth, with stale food and water indicating neglect. Shockingly, the little dog was spending its entire existence within the cramped confines of a small crate, approximately 3’ x 2’. It is believed that Kiva was in that small cage for over 3 months.
Disturbed by what she witnessed, she sought guidance, ultimately reaching out to me. After a lengthy conversation, I advised her to take decisive action and rescue the dog from his disheartening situation. My cousin was courageous and initiated a conversation with the current owner, discovering the dog was unwanted, destined for rehoming or, being dropped off in the middle of the country.
Without hesitation, she proposed adopting Kiva, and the owner, relieved to relinquish responsibility, agreed. Kiva now found refuge in my cousin’s home, marking a pivotal moment in his journey, yet the narrative didn't conclude there.
In his new home, Kiva thrived, reveling in the freedom to run in the grass and play with fellow canines. It was a successful rescue story. Kiva was with my cousin for six months, but when she was getting ready to move to a different state a new opportunity presented itself. After observing the affectionate interactions between Kiva and her neighbors through the fence, my cousin approached them with an offer.
Realizing her neighbors could offer Kiva an even more enriching family life, my cousin proposed they adopt him. Intrigued, the neighbors met Kiva face to muzzle, I’m told it was love at first sight, promising to decide the following day. True to their word, Kiva gained a new family, leaving my cousin content with the knowledge that he was in good hands.
Kiva had found a new home and a new family. According to Kiva's mom, Becky, ”Kiva loves going riding with his dad to get tea because he knows he gets a treat. He is full of energy and love. He is being spoiled rotten."
While numerous remarkable aspects characterize this story, the most touching part, in my view, revolves around a boy and his dog. Recently diagnosed with colon cancer, Becky's son, Dylan, found solace during his hospital stay when Kiva was permitted to visit him. Dogs possess a unique ability to bring joy and strength. Now back home for treatment, Dylan incorporates daily exercises into his routine, with Kiva as his walking partner. Kiva has bestowed upon Dylan a sense of purpose and a meaningful task to undertake.
Dylan is progressing remarkably well with his treatment. Our collective prayers are directed towards his full recovery. Dylan and his family express gratitude to Kiva, and, naturally, Kiva is thankful for his new family.
Sharing this narrative serves as a reminder that, at times, life nudges us toward actions we might not typically embrace. Embracing those moments and standing up for what we believe in can indeed make a significant difference. It is up to us to be the voices for the animals. We have to be their light in the darkness. I encourage everyone to intervene if they ever see an animal in need. Who knows how that story will unfold.
