I read all the posts for this thread and was dismayed to read that Duncan has passed on. I am sorry for your loss.

I dont know anything about Annie's life before she came here as a stray. The vet thought she was a year old when I took her for a checkup and shots etc. I was going to have her spayed but she found a scar from previous spay.

I've often said to Annie:

Why would anybody spend the money to have you spayed and then throw you away?

Why are you so scared of loud noises, especially thunder and guns?

Why are you so skittish around people, especially men at the beginning? I think she was abused in various ways.

Why did they get rid of such a sweet dog as you are?

Where did you come from?

Why did someone probably bring you out to the country and turn you loose? You must have been so scared and you lived off the land and you were skinny and covered in ticks but luckily you found me.

How could they do that to such a good girl?

Then I tell her she's a good girl and nobody will ever hurt her or throw her away again. A pat on the head or a hug makes her go happy and round and round. She really is a sweet good natured dog.