Lily's Story
Alice Mayn, Founder and Executive Director of Lily's Legacy
In The Beginning...
Sweet Lily was found wandering the streets of Santa Rosa, California – no tags or collar – and in ill health. Off she went to Sonoma County Animal Shelter. My first sight of 12-year-old Lily was in a large pen at the shelter. She was so excited to get to come out. She walked straight to me and gave me a big kiss. I think she knew I was there to rescue her. This was November 23, 2007. Lily was frail, had a very bad nasal infection, requiring lots of tissues, and a small tumor on one eyelid, and had not had much exercise during her 17-day stay at the shelter. She was so happy to get in my car, and even more excited when she discovered she now had three golden dog siblings to play with at her new home.
Home & Recovery
During Lily's first trip to our veterinarian, it was decided that the eyelid tumor must be removed, and further testing was needed to find the cause of her nasal infection. Her surgery and tests took place on November 30, 2007, and she did well, despite her age and frailty. Her eye healed well. The infection was caused by a rare bacterium and required a long course of antibiotics. She happily took her medicine, never complained, and smiled constantly. She loved her new dog siblings and curling up on the couch next to me and her other human family members. When she needed time out, a nap in the bathtub was her favorite place to retreat. She had a special nature of peace, gentleness, and love that immediately surrounded all who met her.
Lily's Courage
Lily was really doing well, and then on Christmas night, 2007, she developed canine bloat, a life-threatening condition. I rushed her to the emergency center, where she was operated on and three days later happily came home. She had such an amazing will to live and bounced back quickly, despite her age. Then, at the end of January 2008, she suddenly had a seizure and once again was off to our family veterinarian and once again she bounced back and seemed to be doing fine. Even her nasal infection had finally cleared up. At the end of February 2008 she developed a blood disorder and though we tried treating her, her weakened little body had had too much. Our veterinarian had actually thought she would pull through, but Lily knew it was her time to go. She died peacefully on her bed at
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 Lily's joy home, surrounded by those who loved her so dearly. She was only with us for four short months, but the love she brought to all who met her transcended time, and now it transcends life.
Our Angel
My daughter said, just after Lily died, "Mom, Lily was an angel", and I believe Lily may have been – literally. Her mission in coming into our lives: To have this sanctuary established. A place where many of the senior dogs who are lost, abandoned, or otherwise find themselves homeless, will have a safe haven in which to live out their days, or stay until a loving adoptive home is found, and where they will receive the love and care they so richly deserve. Your support of all the Lilys that come after her is a gift of love to these dear dogs who trust us so completely and, in return, give us the ultimate in unconditional love.
In Lily's memory…………  Lily in the tub |
