VALE Dakota, you will be very much missed, especially by your best bud Harrison.
Dakota’s story in memory. She had quite the history with BAWCS Shelter.
This beautiful girl came into BAWCS care as part of a litter of puppies in 2012.
Camille was first adopted at 11 weeks of age to a young couple who called her Dakota.
In June 2017 Dakota was surrendered back to BAWCS Shelter due to a marriage breakdown. She ended up with the husband but he was unable to manage Dakota’s separation anxiety issues.
BAWCS Shelter was glad to have Dakota back and our dog trainer Sahil from Elite Canines Training stepped in to work with Dakota and better understand her so we could make sure the next home would be hopefully a forever one.
It does take a toll on dogs to be adopted then returned so BAWCS takes a second rehoming with even more care, even holding the dog if needed.
In August 2018, we thought we had found the perfect home for Dakota. She went ‘on trial’ and Sahil worked with the family ensuring they knew she would need to be an indoor / crated dog when noone was home otherwise she would escape if left in their backyard.
Unfortunately circumstances changed and Dakota did end up escaping from a backyard and was hit by a car which resulted in having her leg amputated.
Dakota’s family moved her in with another family member who was at home most of the time and she managed well, enjoying her time whilst there was someone around.
However, the family member had to move and could not take Dakota with him so she was once again returned to the original family members. The home environment did not allow for her to be kept secure so Dakota ended up once again in a situation where she was not safe.
BAWCS Shelter was contacted and we immediately said we would take her back.
Whilst we listed Dakota for adoption, it was going to take a very special application for her to leave our care again.
BAWCS was happy to continue caring for Dakota, ensuring her safety at all times, managing her anxiety in particular when our neighbours shoot kangaroos around the Shelter – the gunshots having a major impact on our girl.
Just before Christmas, Dakota fell ill and was rushed to the vet. Sadly she was diagnosed with a splenic bleed – a bleeding tumour in the spleen, which was not treatable.
BAWCS had to make the decision to give Dakota her wings. Thank you to Dr Mandy Bendigo Pet Vets – Mobile Veterinary Clinic for her compassionate care of Dakota during this difficult time.
Fly free sweet girl, you will always be in our hearts.
BAWCS ‘caring with compassion
