Frederick (DOB unknown – January 22, 2010) came to us as a stray left alone and uncared for by his owners. At Southside Animal Shelter he found a loving home and friends even during his last seconds here on earth. He didn’t seem to trust or want the touch of humans they had let him down to many times in his life but we loved him anyway and we are sorry for his passing.  

FROM FRIEND TO FRIEND

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.

But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.

So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.

The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.

That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.

Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.

You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.

So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.

Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.
By Karen Clouston

COMING in JUNE 2010!

THE DOG PHOTO BOOKS

Melissa McDaniel is a photographer trying to do some good by educating people about shelter dogs, pet overpopulation, deaf dogs, pit bulls...  Her goal is to raise $300,000 for animal rescue groups around the country through the shelter/rescue affiliate program, which gives shelters and rescues 30% of the proceeds. The first two projects are two photo books: Rescued in America & Deaf Dogs

RESCUED IN AMERICA: The moving photos and stories of dogs who were rescued from shelters or adopted from rescue groups, and lucky enough to find their forever homes. Over 50 dogs will be photographed from all across the U.S. will be profiled for this book.

DEAF DOGS: Telling the truth about deaf dogs, dispelling the many myths that surround deaf dogs and cause thousands of them to be euthanized every year. We could learn so much from these inspirational animals who never let their handicap hold them back. Over 50 deaf dogs from the U.S. and Canada will be photographed for this book.

Pre-order your copies today and save 15%!

The projects were founded and are run by photographer and writer Melissa McDaniel.

Featuring one of Southside’s rescues http://johannthedog.com/.