Curly came to live with us about three years ago; he was diabetic and almost blind, and had been through several foster homes waiting for a family.

When Curly arrived at our house, he was a dog without energy, and he had separation anxiety issues. He didn't know how to chase squirrels or cats, and when we tried to take him for walks, he dragged along like an octogenarian. We worked hard to stabilize his diabetes, and slowly coaxed him into walks with us and our other schnauzer, Grant.

It took many months to ease his separation anxiety using a combination of calming Rescue Remedy, treats and music. Grant was not very happy with the new addition to the family, and Curly wanted ALL of our attention. It took a year before the two of them could be trusted not to fight with each other; and another eight months before they would sit next to each other on the couch!

With the veterinary bills, the howling caused by anxiety, the challenges of being blind, and the fighting between the two dogs, at times we despaired and wondered whether we had made the right decision to add a rescue dog to our family. My husband was the strong one and said to persevere; he was right.

All is well now and we have a loving dog whose greatest joy is to sit on my lap and have me scratch his tummy. Although I think the best thing is when Grant chases after a squirrel. Curly cannot see it but he follows Grant, barking and bounding behind, to show his support of squirrel chasing! Curly is a loving and wonderful addition to our family!

Nancy