Joyce writes:

"This past year was really challenging for me. I went through an unexpected divorce and related financial issues, as well as health problems. I’ve always loved dogs and most of my life had a dog around. I kept thinking about getting a dog after I found myself living alone, but could not commit to the financial or emotional commitment at first. All of my friends kept encouraging me to get one, but I knew when the time and circumstances were right it would happen. I applied online to a program which placed dogs of military personnel with civilian individuals while they deployed. The organization even paid all the expenses for the dog. I thought that sounded like a wonderful idea. I was so disappointed to never hear back from them!

Then I saw an article in the AJC about AARF and it mentioned the Silver Paws program. I emailed AARF and Carrol Ball immediately emailed me back. What a great idea, rescuing “senior” dogs and placing them with “senior” people. After a home visit by Carrol and Susan, I was approved as a foster home. When I was notified about Amelia, an 11 year-old German Shepard, who needed a home I was so excited! I went to Athens on a Saturday to meet Amelia and we immediately hit it off. She had been living at the vet clinic for a couple of months after her owners had to give her up. The clinic staff thought the reason she hadn’t been adopted was because of her age. Susan brought her to me the next Friday and we spent the weekend bonding. It only took that one weekend.

It’s like we’ve been together for years. Amelia has brought so much joy into my life. She has the gentlest soul. She follows me around and seems to be so happy just to be close. She likes to cozy up with me on the sofa and watch TV me and loves to go on rides in the car. I broke a bone in my leg shortly after I got Amelia and she instinctively knew I couldn’t walk fast anymore, adjusted her gait to mine and constantly looks up at me to make sure I’m all right. Being a German Shepard, she takes her role of protector very seriously, yet is very gentle and affectionate. The first thing I see every morning is her sweet face looking into mine. I can’t help but start the day off with a smile. Amelia really came into my life when I needed her and she needed me. Some things are meant to be. Thanks Silver Paws!!"