In Loving Memory: Suzy

It is with a heavy heart that we offer a belated tribute to Bosnian rescue Suzy. She crossed the rainbow bridge last February from cancer. It has been an immense loss for her family, and our hearts break with them. 

Before she was her family's beloved couch potato, Suzy, first named “Suzanna” endured unimaginable hardship early in her life, carrying scars from her past like many dogs from war-torn areas. She faced challenges, particularly around men, due to the trauma she experienced on the streets and in private shelters. She got the chance to escape Bosnia in Dec. 2017 during our “30 Days to Save Strays” rescue campaign. This effort entailed rehoming more than 80 dogs from our rescuer’s private shelter in a month’s time before they’d all be forcibly transferred to Sarajevo’s public kill shelter. 

Because of your generous donations, Suzy was transported to a foster family in Germany until she had the chance to come to America 5 months later. Suzy stayed with Tanzie’s family for several months, adjusting quickly to being around Tanzie, Bella, and Benji. But her skittish tendencies and fear of Tanzie’s dad made it unclear whether she’d ever find her forever home. 

But then, a family opened their hearts and their home to her, first as a foster but then ultimately adopting her. She immediately became attached to her new mom but remained fearful of her new dad. They still showered her with love, patience, and understanding, creating a safe and nurturing environment where she could blossom and learn to trust again. They dressed her in adorable sweaters and shirts, gave her all the treats she could ever want, and made sure she felt the love of a forever family. It was a momentous day when several years later, the "problem child" jumped on the couch next to her dad and put her paw on his leg to ask for pets! She became a certified couch potato, never straying far from the comfort of the cushions and her siblings, Yuka, Haruki, and Dio.

We are eternally grateful that Suzy’s family was able to give her the love, comfort, and space she so desperately needed after facing such a difficult start in life.

Rest in peace, sweet Suzy. Your joyful spirit will always remind us that even amidst so many challenges, we can still be deserving of — and give — unwavering love. You will be missed tremendously. We hope you’re enjoying yourself with all the treats and couch time you deserve with so many remarkable companions before you.