Mazie's Story

Sometimes, when I do goofy things, it’s because the ol’ brain is in “neutral” instead of “drive”. Other times, I do something goofy just because it’s fun.
On a snowy, icy day in January, several years ago, my husband and I were volunteering at the local animal shelter. A man brought in a crate of nine Maltepoos that he found alongside a country road. They were unbelievably matted in mud and feces, some with legs and tails bound together. There was no room for these tiny six pounders at the shelter, so the manager was arranging foster homes. We agreed to foster just one, as we had two dogs at home. My husband was firm that two was enough, thinking of winter travel in our RV.
First on the scene meant we had first pick. We have five grown sons and two male dogs; I wanted a girl! With all the matting, it took some time to find her. We wrapped her in an old bath towel and called for “emergency” grooming. On our way out the door, the manager told us to be sure to take before and after photos for the shelter’s newsletter. On the way to the groomer, shaking uncontrollably, she tucked her head under my chin and “kissed” my neck. Hah! Done deal! Doggie #3! She’s mine!!! We changed her name from Flower (uhhhh… at that point, not a fitting name) to Mazie, after Mazie Bird in Dr. Seuss’ “Horton Hatches an Egg”.
Within days, she learned to conquer her fear of floors and steps; that our dogs were not going to eat her; there will always be food; and soft doggie beds were pretty cool. We discovered that it’s pretty cool to have a dog that’s a cuddler and a kisser. Near the end of the first week, she became extremely lethargic. We took her to our vet, who after an Xray, whisked her off to do emergency surgery. She had three decaying puppies inside her. After fully recovering, we finally made our yearly trip to South Texas to the BEACH. And that’s where this long story has been heading – the “after picture” for the shelter’s newsletter.
I wanted a beach pic of her… you know… from a puppy mill’s chicken wire crate to frolicking on the beach. Now, I am not one to dress my dogs in clothing. But, a bikini just had to be! Remarkably, it was not difficult to find one. So… that’s the story… our little Mazie Bird… on vacation… with a mom who’s kinda crazy. And, I like me this way!