Meet Lili, our heartwarming 11-year-old Yorkshire Terrier who has become the beloved mascot of Healing Souls Sanctuary. Lili's journey began when she arrived from Canada in June 2022, and since then, she has filled our days with love, joy, and a spirit that inspires everyone around her.
Lili’s story is one of resilience and survival. After being passed through four different families, she faced unimaginable hardships. One family used her solely for breeding, while another cruelly had her vocal cords cut to silence her barking. Tragically, she was abandoned by yet another family who couldn’t handle her defensive behavior when their young children kicked her. It’s heartbreaking to think of the pain she endured, but Lili’s spirit remained unbroken.
When we first adopted her, we could see the love in her eyes, a love that was unconditional despite her past. Lili quickly became the heart of our sanctuary, accompanying us everywhere we go. Her playful nature and competitive spirit shine through, especially when she’s out exploring.
One memorable hiking trip with our other rescue dog, Dixie, revealed Lili's determination to join in on the adventure. Although she was too small to keep up, she insisted on hiking alongside us, nestled in our school bag. That day, she was filled with excitement, sniffing the vibrant plants and dirt of the mountain. However, in a tragic turn of events, Lili’s thorax collapsed during the hike. We rushed her to the vet, where Dr. Andrew delivered the difficult news: Lili had an oversized heart and potential complications from her earlier surgeries.
Despite the challenges, Lili continues to show us what it means to love unconditionally. Dr. Andrew reassured us that as long as she doesn’t pant too hard, she feels no pain. To keep her comfortable in the warm Costa Rican climate, we switched cars to one with air conditioning, ensuring she can enjoy her beach outings, albeit in short bursts under the shade.
Lili’s little tummy, which resembles a pregnant belly, is a testament to her love for treats and the care we provide. At night, we embrace her gentle panting as part of our routine, sleeping with a fan on and soothing her with gentle rubs on her chest. It’s a small gesture of love for a dog who has given us so much joy.
As we continue to provide the best life possible for Lili, we are reminded of the resilience of animals and the importance of compassion. Lili’s story is not just about survival; it’s about the healing power of love and the joy that comes from second chances. At Healing Souls Sanctuary, we are committed to ensuring that every animal, like Lili, receives the care, love, and respect they deserve. Join us in celebrating Lili and the many other animals who call our sanctuary home, as we work together to create a brighter future for all.
Comments