Kumo (VGSR 2203, AKA “GG” which stood for Good Girl) was found as a stray in 2008. She had been abused and her damaged shoulders and hips were never tended to and caused her to walk with some difficulty. Her age could only be estimated as she had worn her teeth down in frustration, probably from being kept in a small enclosure. She was adopted by us in the summer of 2008 and became fast friends with Kage who was also adopted a few weeks earlier, and he too had a sad history. She was stoic and loyal and often gave a canine smile and head flick when she was happy. She set the rules for her pack – no running was allowed in the house. She would yelp her displeasure at one or both of her male pack mates until they stopped.  Kumo was also lovingly stubborn and got a twinkle in her eye when acting so. When an older (11-year-old) GSD with DM joined the pack she remained on the first floor of our home with him throughout the night when he was no longer able to navigate the steps to the second floor. Even after his passing she slept by his spot for a few days before joining us in our bedroom. It should be noted that from the beginning she had to be assisted up the stairs, but always wanted to be with her family/pack.

She successfully beat her first bout with cancer, being in remission for 6 months. When the cancer returned she reacted poorly, even to very conservative treatment targeting her pain.  A bit stingy in showing affection she displayed the surprising depth of her love when we had to leave her for one night at a vet E.R. due to dehydration. She did not hold back at all again when we took her home the next day. Sadly, the downhill slide ended on June 11, 2012 when she was eased into peace by our vet while we cradled her. The most difficult part was that she never gave up, but her body failed to keep up with her strong spirit that never lost that twinkle in her eye. Kumo will always be in our hearts, but missed so much.  Thank you, Girl, for the love and laughs that you shared with us.

John and Nancy Streeter