RIP Odinđź’”
Written by our president/founder Katrina Young-Pope: “8 months ago I got tagged in a post about a Great Dane in need. I didn’t respond right as I was busy tackling family/work stuff but after several more tags, and a week of wondering, I reached out to the person behind the post. I quickly learned that he was still available and made contact with the previous owner who drove up the next week to surrender him to the rescue.
Odi was a giant guy, and had one of the biggest heads i’ve ever seen on a dog. He was underweight, had no manners, was in tact, and it was obvious he suffered from being badly bred and not properly cared for. But despite his state, my son Kaiden instantly bonded with him. I was cautious with this giant guy, but as the days went on and I caught myself spending more and more of my time thinking about him, I quickly knew I couldn't live without him and so I brought him home.
Odi was a genetic mess. He came to me with pneumonia, something he would just randomly get several more times as the months went by. He had I.B.D, hip dysplasia, and a compromised immune system, but I learned to cook for him daily, and he took his meds with no problem.
He was my happy dude, my pain in the butt, my perfect giant guy. He had the kindest eyes I’ve ever seen. I was madly in love with him. I devoted my life to making sure he was happy, healthy, medicated, and had lots of new squeaky stuffed toys. He rode with me all over saving other animals, picking up the kids, and was a part of the family.
Yesterday that all came to an end as he developed bloat and he was not a candidate for surgery. My heart was broken and I was so devastated as I had to say goodbye to him. Early on my vet said "He’s here for a good time, not a long time" but I didn't think our time would be cut this short.
I am so thankful that I could make Odi’s last 8 months on earth amazing. He knew warmth, kindness, love, and what it meant to be part of a family. He got lots of ice cream trips and burgers and bark boxes! He wore sweaters and loved his couch!
For us, 8 months just wasnt enough.
All of us in rescue know this pain, its a pain that we all know is part of what we do. Loss becomes so prevalent when doing this, and some days like today, its downright impossible to get yourself out of bed to function. Yet we still choose to do it to ensure animals like Odin are cared for in forever homes.
Rescue animals love differently, its a love full of appreciation. Its a beautiful bond❤️ Today I ask you to donate to us in Odin’s name so we can continue to provide life saving services to animals in need. Even a dollar makes a difference.
Odin was my best boy, my heart hound, and gave me purpose within this rescue. I cant help but to thank him for all he has done to heal my heart after my other danes unexpected passing. Odi was my saving grace and I truly believe he saved me. I am going to miss you so much sweet boy.”
