One busy evening, CRI Director, Linda Zeswitz, received a phone call requesting help for a collie. This was not an unusual event by any stretch of the imagination; however, as Linda listened on, the caller painted a horrifying picture of one collie's life. Ariel, who is presumed to have been severely neglected for at least a year, if not much longer, lived a solitary and lonely life. She was not allowed the necessities most take for granted. She was not taken outside at all - no walks, no playing, not even time to go to the bathroom. She was not fed regularly which was clearly reflected at time of weigh-in. When Ariel was rescued, she was a staggering 29 pounds. Her nails had grown so long that she could not walk on her feet; the bottom of her feet literally did not touch the ground. There was good news, though... good Samaritans, Lisa and Carmen, had managed to rescue this collie and immediately took her to a nearby emergency vet clinic.

I was completely astounded when I met Ariel. I expected a terrified and extremely suspicious collie who would have a long and laborious rehabilitation. I sat in the emergency vet clinic waiting room and listened as Carmen told us how she and her friend rescued Ariel. As I heard the click of her steps down the hall, my heart lurched - Ariel was absolutely beautiful. And the scared, panicked collie I imagined was nowhere in sight; rather, Ariel had an air of relief and happiness about her. She let us comfort and talk to her and seemed at peace. Perhaps she understood that she was finally safe; maybe the wisdom gained through such a traumatic life gives one a sense of patience far beyond my comprehension. At any rate, we bade Carmen and her family farewell and took Ariel home to begin the long grooming process. She was an absolute angel!

Ariel was taken in by CRI fosters, Beth & Jon Davis.  They provided her with a loving environment and much needed nourishment.  Ariel has since found her forever home. Sharon and her daughters, Kim and Lindsay, met Ariel and welcomed her into their family about a month ago. Since then, she has been continually gaining weight and confidence. We are so grateful for all of those who have helped Ariel find her way. Every collie deserves the good things in life. Now, Ariel gets to experience them all over again.