Happy Ending Story: Sting
 Sting
came to live with my mother(76) and I in August 2005. I had read about
Basenji’s but there was some disagreement about a dog in “The House”… fleas,
dirt, torn up furniture!! We had just moved in the spring, so: the house was
painted; the carpet clean; and the woodwork was in good shape. I had looked
for a year for this house and we did not want it torn up or any antiques
damaged either!
After much discussion and prayer Sting (age 9) came to
live with us. Not long off the streets of Rome, GA came this little man that
took our hearts and brought great joy to our lives. He was kind of a couch
potato type but did test us from time to time in Basenji form. He ran my
mother up and down the street the day he escaped.
After time, he walked nicely on a leash for her while I
was away. He learned mother’s limits and was a great companion to her during
the day. Sting would stay close to mother especially during thunderstorms.
Always laying quietly by or behind her chair. She became his comfort then
but mostly he was there for her.
 It
took some time to keep Sting off the couch…it was a competition for us to
outsmart each other so the cushions were tilted at a 45 degrees for months.
I remember the time I could not find him and he was behind the cushion
sleeping…out popped this little head—BUSTED! Eventually Sting felt sorry for
me and was content to lay on his beds or the floor.
Sting is very vocal and baroos for treats and when he
smells food. He will even dance or loop the yard for a treat. He is rarely
crated and welcomes friends to our home with much joy! He gets along with my
relatives young cats and lets children unroll his tail. Sting travels well
on trips and gladly wears his seat belt.
Sting is truly a great dog!! I will always be grateful for
BRAT and the work they do. Sting came along at just the right time. I have
learned to: go out and look at the stars; take more naps; and not stress so
much about “The House.”
 By the way, Sting is allowed on the couch now but was
reluctant to join me at first.
Sadly, I recently found out that Sting has cancer and
Cholestatic liver disease. He is on medication and will continue to be the
King of our Home. He has come a long way from the streets and is truly a
loyal and wonderful Basenji! It has been my privilege to have Sting in his
senior years and be able to learn some life lessons from a little dog.
Basenji’s Rule!
Jackie Milhorn
Huntsville, AL
October 2009 |
