Golden Oldies
My Story of Ardis
by Barb Latts
We adopted Ardis on 3-14-03, after being her foster family for eight days. When I picked up Ardis from Jane N.'s house she whined and cowered. Clearly she was traumatized after being dumped at the humane society. The humane society staff told Jane the person who dropped her off did not know her name, as her owner had passed away. So, Jane gave her the name of Ardis, as a memorial to Ardis Brown, one of RAGOM's founders. The staff also told Jane that they did not see Ardis stand up, or wag her tail until Jane arrived to rescue her. Jane said the dogs instinctively know when someone is there to rescue them. Plus all goldens love this woman!
Words are hard to find to express how much Ardis means to us, especially to me, her new "mom." My husband is sick of hearing me say, "I just love this old girl," although he loves her too. Ardis has the most sensitive eyes, and has a beautiful, soulful, and expressive face. This is in part to her gray muzzle, which reminds me of a grandma. Ardis was somewhat traumatized for the first couple days she was with us. I sat on the floor with her, constantly petting and kissing her. She was very fearful of coming into the kitchen or our bedroom. Gradually, Ardis came out of her shell, and it now seems like she has been part of our family forever.
Ardis has changed my life in a most profound way. Her tail "drums" constantly with happiness. I never knew I could love or bond so quickly with a dog. It is absolutely not true that senior goldens cannot bond with a new family, or adapt to a new environment. Other positive aspects of having a senior is that they are not hyper, demanding, make potty messes in the house, or chew on everything like a puppy does. The majority of senior goldens I have met do not have major medical issues. I believe this is a common misbelief about seniors as well. Ardis is content to hang out with me, and she follows me around the house. She is starting to like her walks, and everyday we walk a little further.
About RAGOM: I have been a volunteer for RAGOM for only a short time. I have met many intelligent, compassionate, caring, and dedicated people. This group understands that goldens are FOREVER, and are not disposable. I have also met some of the nicest dogs on earth, ages ranging from eight weeks to twelve years. I plan on continuing to volunteer for RAGOM, and I am proud to let others know about the work that is done by our dedicated volunteers.
Please consider adopting a senior golden. Yes, Ardis may only have a few years of life left, but it makes me happy to know we can give her the best life possible. I love her with all my heart!
