A few years back I was a foster parent for a local dog rescue agency. Doing a search for my next foster dog on Petfinder I saw the most gorgeous little poodle in Clarksville, TN. I emailed the shelter and they were very gracious and helpful in getting the poodle to me in Chattanooga. The dog's bio on Petfinder said he had deformed back legs and his tail could not wag. I knew that God would let this precious dog express himself in other ways.

Pierre as he looked when he came from the shelter.

It did not take long for me to completely fall in love with Pierre. He had the most loving, snuggly personality but he could also be a real prankster. One of his favorite tricks was to run up behind Tia, pull one of her back legs out from behind her so she would fall over, and then run off! Although Pierre was supposed to be a foster dog and adopted to a new family I could not let him go. I became so attached to him that I could imagine letting him go.

Pierre and I Spring 2004

After a thorough veterinary exam it was discovered that Pierre had a spinal cord injury. My vet did not recommend surgery on Pierre's legs because he was getting along so well!

Tia and Pierre in the sunroom

Pierre LOVED to run and play. His favorite pastime was sitting on my lap with his little head under my chin. I even taught Pierre to say, "Uh huh!" at the door when he needed to go outside to potty.

The humane society in Clarksville, Tennessee where Pierre came from even featured Pierre on their "Happy Endings" page!

Clarksville Humane Society Happy Endings Site

Pierre 2 Days before he died

On Valentine's Day 2005 Pierre started acting different. He refused his food that day and was very lethargic. That evening he started acting like his normal playful self but I could tell he was still not feeling well.

Pierre passed away early in the morning of February 15th. Glenn and I had no idea that Pierre was near death. It is my understanding that these things just sometimes happen with spinal cord injuries.

Pierre was certainly a perfect member of the family even if only for two years. Pierre was so comical, loving and sweet. When I think of Pierre I cannot help but smile because he just brightened up my life. I am so grateful I had that sweet, precious poodle in my life!

Adopt a poodle! I absolutely fell in love with the breed they are really great dogs! Below are photos from rescue groups that primarily rescue poodles. All of the dogs that are pictured below are not necessarily poodles. This feature randomly shows available dogs available for adoption. I did set it to feature dog rescue organizations that focus primarily on rescuing poodles. Even if the dog pictures below is not a poodle it is still a great dog in need of a loving home!