Casey (aka Sophie)

ADOPTED 10/22/00

On September 26, 2000, after 14 ½ years, we lost a very special friend and family member – our Cocker Spaniel, "Nicky". At first, the pain of our loss was so great that getting another pet was the last thing on our mind. As the days passed and our home seemed too quiet to bear, my wife mentioned that the "Oldies But Goodies" Cocker Rescue was holding an adoption show at the PETCO in Chantilly, Virginia that Saturday. I agreed to go but had no intention of coming home with a new pet.

When we arrived at the adoption show, it was as if "Nicky" was telling us to choose one, take it home and give it the same love and security that we had given to him. It was as if "Nicky" was telling us ….."It’s OK, it really is?"

Looking around each of the Cockers were really cute, but one of them, "Sophie" attracted our attention. She didn’t have the typical "Cocker" face but she was adorable. She seemed to love everyone that walked past her. She seemed to be asking for someone to adopt her and take care of her.

After speaking to someone from the Cocker Rescue about her, we discovered that "Sophie" had been mistreated and neglected. We also discovered that her past owner had broken her jaw. This poor dog had suffered so much and show wasn’t even a year old. It was hard to believe that "Sophie" had survived horrible abuse and yet was the most affectionate dog we had ever seen. We decided right then to adopt her and take her home that day. We would make sure that NO ONE would ever harm her again.

"Sophie", now known as "Casey" has wiggled and jumped her way into our hearts. Everyone that meets her wants to take her home with them. She has so much energy and loves running around the back yard, chasing everything she sees and hears. She is always there to greet us when we come home and loves to cover our faces with kisses.

Losing Nicky was sad and we miss him very much. Although he could never be replaced, we have an opportunity with "Casey" to once again fill our home with that special love and joy that only a pet can offer.

We strongly encourage others to adopt a pet. All they want is to be loved and what you get in return is greater than words can express. We are fortunate, through "Casey", to experience one of God’s greatest gifts the unconditional love and companionship of a pet.

Sincerely,

John and Nancy Otto