Sadie and Tess' Story
by their Mom, Kathryn Hall
I promised to write you an update about Tess back in early November, but I'm glad I waited. Tess was a great addition to our family then, and became even more valuable than we'd know soon thereafter.
We adopted Tess in early September when she was approximately 3 ½ months old. I remember the exact day she joined our family-- September 10th-- because I also remember that she was a welcome distraction from the shock of September 11th. We watched the TV in horror, but had to stop to pet and cuddle this "new baby."
Tess joined our two children, ages 5 and 8, and an 11-year-old black lab, Maggie. My youngest had been asking for a puppy for a long time, and I also felt it might be a good time to introduce another dog to perk Maggie up, and to be there for the day when Maggie was gone. Tess just adored Maggie. She jumped on her and nipped at her, but, most adorable, she cuddled up and slept on her. We had never seen Maggie be affectionate to another dog, but we were surprised to see how well she responded to Tess. Tess really brought out the best in Maggie, who became more active and agile, despite arthritis. She seemed to like this new role. |
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We had both dogs with us over Thanksgiving at grandparents', and there was a third dog on the scene there, their dog, Suzy. She is a 6 year-old who is able to keep up with Tess a little better than Maggie. Tess and Suzy wrestled and chased like crazy, but, at one point, Maggie finally seemed to have enough of it. She barked and bristled to protect Tess and keep Suzy from grappling with her (they weren't hurting one another, but Maggie seemed to defend Tess' honor!).
Sadly, we lost Maggie only two days later to a cancer we didn't even know she had. She was active and happy until the last day, which was a great consolation, and I truly feel her last 10 weeks were enhanced by her interaction with Tess.
Tess is a sweet, love-monger. She likes to run and play, but also loves to lay in a lump for petting. She is very smart, and plays great with the kids (who definitely test her!). Tess noticeably "regressed" in her behavior (such as jumping up on people) when Maggie was gone. I believe Maggie was as important to Tess in that short time as Tess was to Maggie.
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Tess walks to school every day with the kids, as well as walking with me. A favorite game for Tess and our children is "chase the dog." She gets a toy or stick, then they proceed to try and capture her, never once with any success! It is great exercise for all, and Tess' Border Collie maneuverability is apparent during these games. Tess is a doll, and is doing great. She is a wonderful member of our family. |
(Editor's Note: After Maggie passed away, the Halls decided to adopt a sister for Tess, and Sadie, one of our rescues, came to join the family. All is well -- and we will post Sadie's story and more photos soon. -- KL)