That Mona Lisa Smile

by Linda Davolt
(Plano Texas USA)

I used to do rescue for Rat terriers but had stopped taking them in by 2000. But in 2002, I was asked by a rescue group if I could take in a chihuahua that was in a local shelter, their rescue was too full to take her. She was 12 years old, only had about 5 or 6 teeth left and was not doing well in the shelter. They had named her Mona Lisa.
I went to get her Labor Day weekend at the end of August 2002. She instantly bonded with me and looked at me like I saved her.
She had dull fur, was thin from Heart-worms and hookworms. But I took her home, got her some good vet care, some good food and a lot of love. I knew instantly that she was different, I would keep her and she was always with me.
Over the years she lost the rest of her teeth but still remained spunky and feisty. She slept with me, sat with me on the couch, followed me from room to room. I have several other dogs, but she was the dog. They knew we had a very special bond.
I had Mona Lisa for 9 years, she just died this past Tuesday at the age of 21.
She had gotten so thin, so frail. She forgot how to go outside, and near the end she fell frequently and couldn't get back up. I was there to help her out and keep her safe.
As long as she still gave me that look of love, and I waited until she would no longer eat. I realize how I was the lucky one to have had such a wonderful friend. I miss her terribly and I know that she was the one who saved me. Rest in peace, Mona Lisa. I love you.