Little Miss Millie

by Shannon Higgins
(Bonner Springs, KS)

She loves everyone, even before they are awake enough to love back!

Our family, sadly, had to put our 4 yr old Labradoodle down this past February, due to cancer. It was just awful, as I am sure most pet families will agree, but what made it so much more difficult, was that we were heartbroken for our newly adopted 2 yr old Standard Poodle, Sinclair. We had only adopted him four days prior to getting the horrible news from the vet, that the test results were back, and it was inoperable. Having three young children, we decided to act quickly, to put her out of her misery, and to avoid dragging it out.
Sinclair adapted rather well, and thoroughly enjoyed life with our family. Then, I found Millie. She was posted in an ad on Craigslist, with an adoption fee of $100. No pictures, but was told she was a 2 yr old chocolate, female, Standard Poodle.
Well, my girls and I drove about an hour away to meet the lady and the dog. When she got the dog out of the car, I know my jaw just hit the ground. This poor creature looked like a Goldendoodle puppy, as her hair was brown with red and blonde higlights, all of which were over 8 inches long! She stunk to high heaven and had poo in her hair. One look into those BEAUTIFUL, light brown eyes and I was hooked. My heart melted and I gladly paid the woman her 'adoption' fee, which was all that lady was concerned with.
When we got home, it was after nine o'clock at night, about an hour and a half past my little ones' bedtime, so the dog went into the empty garage. I felt so bad for her, having to stay in the garage, that I was out there with her until after midnight. She wouldn't even come within 2 feet of me! But she wasn't alone.
The next day, my groomer squeezed her in first thing in the morning. She was so terribly matted and dirty that she couldn't get them out. She had to shave her to the skin. I felt just awful. Here was this poor, outdoor dog - who in the world gets a Poodle, to live outside, in the Midwest, with our harsh winters?! - who I had just traumatized (new people, new place, new food, etc), even more. Remember the ad that said she was chocolate? She was cream! Now that her hair has grown in, she is a sliver beige, but still has a cream pom on her tail. Total neglect.
Well, after the initial few days, learning what stairs are, figuring out what 'outside' meant (Sinclair was the best teacher, and still the best big brother), she is just such a joy! I would do it all over again in a heartbeat! She loves to cuddle, has recently learned what toys are for and finally decided to join in, and got the hang of a collar and lead super fast. She is so smart! I know the breed, and maybe I am biased, but she amazes me everyday!
I love both of my Poodles, but honestly feel that Millie knows I saved her, and really loves me for that.