It was love at first sight. The story of Zelda.
Kathy hadn't been looking for a dog. While she loved dogs, had grown up with them, and had a couple of her own as an adult, she wasn't feeling the urge to bring a dog into her life. However, a friend asked her to meet a 2-year-old dog named Zelda, who needed to be rehomed due to a new baby in the family. Kathy agreed to meet Zelda, but had no plans to adopt the dog. Kathy didn't even have a car. How would she bring the dog to the vet? Doesn't a dog owner need a car? Regardless, Kathy went to meet Zelda. Upon seeing Zelda, stars collided, fate struck, and Kathy's heart melted. It was love at first sight, and a new family was created. Within 2 days, Zelda was sleeping in Kathy's bed. Within 2 weeks, Kathy bought a new car.
Zelda was quite a nervous girl, initially. A bit shy, but in an adorable way. Kathy just knew in her heart that Zelda's shyness wouldn't last. And Kathy was right. It wasn't long before Zelda burst out of her shell. Zelda was an active dog who loved to go for walks, go to the park, play fetch, swim in Lake Michigan, and cuddle. Kathy and Zelda quickly became best friends and made each other's worlds so much fuller.
Zelda was getting older and her health was beginning to decline. Kathy's sister gave her an incredibly special birthday gift. A photography session for Zelda. Zelda was often weary of strangers, and didn't feel particularly comfortable around men, which Kathy's sister discussed with me prior to the session. I reassured her that I would take the time needed for Zelda to feel safe and comfortable. With some patience, a gentle manner, and lots of yummy treats, I took cues from Zelda and moved at her speed. In no time, she blossomed. Kathy even reported seeing a new side of Zelda that day, as she seemed to relish the attention and simply glowed in front of the camera.
The timing of the birthday gift and photo session was perfect because, sadly, Zelda crossed the rainbow bridge not long after. Zelda was Kathy's "soul animal". That one special animal who touched her soul like no other. Many of us have experienced the loss of our "soul animals", and wonder whether we will ever find a love like that again. This is a question with which Kathy is still grappling. And she hasn't found the answer yet. In the meantime, she makes sure to keep Zelda's spirit alive with her beautiful girl's photos around her home, reminding her of the impact Zelda had on her life and the love the two shared for 11 incredible years.
Kathy said, "Zelda was a great companion and a great protector. Honestly, I believe Zelda made my heart grow exponentially. She completed my family".
