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I explained a while back that my stories will be sporadic due to personal problems. Many of you may not know that among other things, I lost all my toes due to a lack of oxygen to my extremities. I’ve learned how to walk on the balls of my feet and often with a cane.  

It’s been 9 years since my toes were removed and in the last few months, I’ve had swelling in my calves and feet along with some discoloration. These are the very symptoms I had 9 years ago. My cardiologist has sent me for an EKG and learned that the flow is narrowing below my knees. Things are being done to help remedy the situation; we’ll go over some of them on my next visit. No complaints here, I’m just stating facts, with the many prayers I’ve received from friends and loved ones along with some fine doctors, I’m truly a blessed man.

While I was visiting Landrum Vet, I checked on Miley, the young dog found on the road struck by a car. She’ll be going back Monday to visit my dear friend Dr. Allen and a potential adopter will be going along to learn what will be needed. I’ve been told that the potential owner is very responsible and I pray that sweet Miley will end up in a loving forever home.

Harper, the cute little Corgi, was rescued by one of the vet techs at Landrum Vet. Harper was brought to Upstate specialists who could not help with her congestive heart problem.  It was recommended that they try the University of Tennessee. At the University the problem was diagnosed and certain medicines and procedures should keep Harper going for a long life.  

I met this little girl and my God, is she a sweetie. The young lady who first rescued her has taken care of all the fees, which thus far are over $3,000. I learned that she is adopting Harper and though I couldn’t help her at this time, I promised I would tell her story and ask all who wish to help to check out the GoFundMe page for Harper.  

The lady who has adopted and rescued Harper is someone I admire greatly. She understands what I mean when I say, “Love is not enough,” and she has walked the walk.

While leaving Landrum Vet I met a couple holding a German Shorthair puppy. The little boy was beautiful with perfect markings for the breed, deep chocolate patches with some speckles against a creamy white.  

“He’s handsome,” I said, and the pup nearly jumped out of the gentleman’s arms trying to get to me.  

“You look familiar,” the gentleman said. “Are you Lennie?”  

“That’s me,” I responded. 

“Are you still rescuing?” he asked.  

I pointed at my jar labeled Lennie’s Kids.  

“You don’t remember me,” he said, “but you gave me a dog 12 years ago that you had saved. Her name is Lily. She is still with us and she is the best dog I’ve ever owned.”  

As tears rushed to my eyes I blurted out, “You just made my day.”  Before leaving I kissed the pup between the eyes and said, “You’ve got some big shoes to fill young man.”

Thanks for listening.

 

 

Leonard Rizzo is the founder of Lennie’s Kids, a nonprofit organization that helps sick and injured animals in the foothills, promotes animal welfare and works to find homes for pets.