I would like to first start off by introducing myself as the newest volunteer at the Shelter. My name is Ashley Hyslop and I’m from Toronto, Canada. Before making my way down to Playa Del Carmen (my first stop on my journey around Mexico/Central America), I did a bit of research on animal shelters in the area. I, of coarse came across the Peanut Pet Shelter and became very anxious to learn more about their rescue efforts for the animals of Playa. I immediately reached out to Jen by email and the rest is history! After spending sometime at the Shelter already, I’m very excited about working with them further for the next upcoming months to blog, fundraise, foster and continue to help those animals in need. Andy and Jen are amazing!!!!! For all of you who have yet to visit the shelter or meet them in person – you would be amazed at the dedication and love these two individuals have for helping animals. The Peanut Pet Shelter is full of happy dogs/cats – thanks to Andy/Jen – as well as all the other supporters of the shelter.
Just wanted to say a few words about how I became the animal lover I am today – My love for animals began at age 9 when my parents finally got me my first dog Tobi (after begging for years). Above is a picture of Tobi at his 15th Birthday Party – a day I will never forget. Tobi was a member of our family for almost 16 years – there are no words to describe the impact he had on all of us. His presence was so positive and calming – and he taught us the true meaning of loyalty. Regardless of the mood we were in each day or the length we were away from the house – Tobi was always there to greet us with a wagging tail and a big lick waiting. When I was younger – Tobi knew exactly what time the school bus pulled up each day – and waited patiently for my brother, sister and I to get off the bus before going crazy with excitement. As I got older – he scoped out my boyfriend’s – he was always able to get a good sense for them – and it was fairly easy to tell which ones he approved of and which ones he didn’t (my parents approved if Tobi approved). Yes Tobi had some ‘Marley & Me’ moments – but who doesn’t – animals, just like children and teenagers go through their ‘experimental’ stages – Tobi just wanted to test the waters from time to time to see what he could get away with. Luckily for Tobi – we let him get away with a lot – his face was just wayy too cute to get angry at him.
On Jan 11th, 2010 – with my family by his side at our house in Toronto (I was the only member not there – and was devestated just as much) – Tobi said one final goodbye. My brother bought him a Big Mac as his last meal and very painlessly the vet ended Tobi’s suffering. In his last year – Tobi’s age started to really show. Despite pain killers/medicated food and special care – Tobi’s arthritis took control of his back legs – he only liked going to the bathroom in the house and he stayed up most nights crying. His quality of life was not what he would have wanted. Despite being one of the hardest decisions my family had to make – it was only fair for Tobi to let him go.
Because of the joy Tobi brought us – I went on to adopt two other doggies that needed our help – so Tobi could have a doggie brother and sister. Animals do not have a voice and therefore rely on us to be their voice. For all of you that read this and have never had a pet – animals are the next best thing. When you are sad…they will lay beside you…when you have done some wrong…they will never judge you…when you need a distraction…they are ready to play…when you need positive energy….their presence is unlimited.
Im really excited about being apart of the efforts of the Peanut Pet Shelter. Moving forward I will be writing numerous blogs on my experiences and stories on how your donations are helping to make a difference.
RIP Tobi – Forever Loved/Forever Missed
Related posts:
