AHFK Foster Momma Felicia Stilley of Wewoka OK is the female version of Saint Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Animal Advocacy. Felicia makes the daily rounds of the local shelters and pounds in her area, much like Florence Nightingale of the sick and wounded. She is diligent in pulling those surrendered, abused, forgotten animals that are scheduled for euthanasia. The pounds and shelters in her area only grant incoming animals a three day hold. This is not the fault of the shelter staff. The blame lies with those individuals who “committed” to the care and welfare of animals at one time, only to discard it like trash when it was no longer fun, convenient, or restricted with schedules, or God-forbid, might cost one a few dollars in vetting fees. And this is where Foster Momma Felicia happened upon Pepper, a small, 9#, black and tan, 4-year-old, female Chihuahua.
Pepper’s human poppa had to be admitted into a nursing care facility and Pepper found herself dumped at the pound by the family…and we use the term family loosely. In three days, Pepper would be put down. This sweet, quiet, “I only want to be cuddled and loved” Chihuahua didn’t display the typical Chihuahua “warrior-type” temperament. She reminded me of my Annie and, of course, she dug deep into my heart. We needed a special family, a special home, one where Pepper would never feel abandoned again, never feel separated from those that loved her. And, we found that home.
Sunday morning, Pepper made the 3-hour journey west to her new home and family. Glen and Amy had recently lost their little Chi, Louie, to cancer. His photos still adorn the family mantle and Glen and Amy’s stories contained nothing but love for their little guy. He brought them years of joy, memories, and especially lap-time cuddles and snuggles. Amy truly missed these times and she knew that they had so much more love and time to give. Newly retired, Pepper would be pampered and cherished.
Glen and Amy, thank you for giving Pepper the absolute best home and family. Thank you for giving her the life, family and environment that she truly deserves. Our hearts are full.