Meet the amazing Genie Derf. I had the honor of making her birthday hats to celebrate her 19th birthday! Her story, written by her Mom, Neena, was published in the Manatee Herald Tribune.
Eight years ago, Greyhound Pets of America/Tampa Bay's Volunteers set up a tent at a local craft fair to promote adoptions of retired racing dogs. We were immediately drawn to the group of amazingly beautiful, graceful, elegant dogs in need of good homes.
One pup, Genie, particularly stood out to us. We remember how she patiently and proudly stood as we were told her story. We learned that she was 11 years old and newly retired after five years of running and five years of breeding. Captivated by her big, brown, beautiful eyes, "bunny soft" coat and wonderful smile, my husband, Tim, announced, "She belongs in our home."
That day proved to be the luckiest of our lives, as Genie actually saved my husband's life. About two years after her adoption, Genie had a regular veterinary appointment one Sunday afternoon. Later, at 3:30 a.m., Genie urgently rattled her tags, nudged and woke me up. She never does that! I thought she might be sick from the shots and rushed to take her outside. To my shock, she led me to my husband, passed out at the other end of the house. He had an internal bleeding problem, and had hemorrhaged to the point that doctors say he was 10 minutes from death. I would have slept through it all if it weren't for our miracle dog, Genie.
We truly believe that Genie chose us to be her family. She had a definite purpose at the end of her magnificent racing career that she was destined to fulfill. Genie was meant to be our miracle.
On May 8, our Genie turned an amazingly healthy and happy 19 years young. A greyhound's normal life span is 10 to 13 years. Genie is a true ambassador for greyhound adoptions, and proof positive that older pets in need deserve loving homes. At every event Genie attends, she amazes us all. She continues to be very energetic, bright-eyed, loving, smart and gorgeous. We are truly proud of our little girl, and she is loved more than words can ever express.
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