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Happy Ending Story: Athena
 Who would have thought a
basenji could love snowy Alaska … they don't even like rain!
Well, you haven't met Athena!
During our search for a dog my husband and I
became intrigued by the basenji. We thought it was a beautiful dog
and rushed to the library to find more information about the
breed. When we found only two older publications we turned to the
Internet.
After searching many Web sites we discovered the BRAT
site. Wow! Even after reading the reality
stories we decided that this was the breed for us.
Because we were so saddened and touched by the stories
of these dogs in need, we decided to adopt a basenji from BRAT. And this
is where we saw Athena for the first time!
Her picture and story made our
hearts melt and we thought, "This beautiful girl has seen the
worst. As her new family we are going to show her the
best!"
 At three years old, Athena was rescued from the
California
Puppy Mill Bust near Modesto, where she lived in a deplorable
situation.
After we read about her, we knew it was meant to be
and said, Athena's the one! We were absolutely certain we could give her
the best home ever in Alaska and soon she was on her way to the igloo
state.
Seeing Athena in her crate for the first time, I
thought to myself, "This is our new dog; she's so
beautiful!"
Athena has come a long way from the wild-eyed
puppy-mill dog she was when we got her. At first you couldn't get near
her—she was so shy and wanted nothing to do with us -- so we talked
to her a lot and after a few days she let me touch her. When she started
to cuddle with me on the couch my heart melted into a giant puddle. It
took longer for her to warm up to my husband. It was a great day for us
when she decided he was an ok guy and got up on the couch to cuddle with
him!
Athena loves to play and loves to be chased around our
yard. She also loves to play with the cats. Although we had been warned
about how destructive basenjis can be, she is perfect when she's alone
in the house or car. We like to think it's because she's so comfortable
in her "forever" home.
Now, I'll bet you're asking, What
about basenjis in the snow in Alaska; does she play in the snow?
Well, she tromps through the snow like humans walk in the surf. We
take Athena walking, snow shoeing, and skiing in the snow. Who
would have thought a basenji could thrive in Alaska? … we
would!
Crissy and Bob Beauvais
Anchorage, Alaska
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