Exactly two years ago, HSTJ responded to a hoarding case, a man was found to be hoarding 157 dogs in two locations of Tijuana. (a link to the article is below). As a result of mass publicity and the help of rescue groups, 80% of these animals were adopted out. However, the conditions of the animals that remained were horrible. HSTJ arrived to conduct a street clinic on these remaining animals, but as volunteers started processing the animals and treating them, we slowly realized that we could not just leave them there, we had to do something. Within an hour, we had found a property where we could temporarily house the remaining dogs, a huge undertaking for an organization of such meager resources, but the volunteers were strong, resourcful and determined. I don't thinkwe realized how much work would have to be put into this project but in the end it was well worth the blood, sweat and tears.
Read the full story here
http://friendsofhumanesocietydetijuana.blogspot.com/2009/02/hstj-responds-to-needs-of-animals-of.html
I have decided to re-visit this story and follow up wth as many of the owners of the rescued hoarding dogs, so that their amazing stories can be shared and live on forever.
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Where Are they Now, Part Two - Here is Tilly's heart-warming story
This cute story from Tilly's perspective was written to me a week after I brought her across the border March 8, 2009:
Dear Michelle,
Thank you so much for rescuing me. Not that Mexico isn't a beautiful country filled with wonderful people. It is just that I think that coming to America will open up a whole new world for me. The work that you do for fur people like me is just incredible. I will be for ever grateful to you for changing my life. My new "Peeps" are grateful as well I think. I keep hearing them talk about what a gem I am and that I couldn't be more perfect for the family. I am already "their girl"...they tell me that over and over....I can never hear it enough. I think I am special too and have a lot to offer. You probably are amazed at my command of the english language....2 words....Rosetta Stone. I always felt I was destined for a life in a foreign country so I think I spent my time wisely. Less butt sniffing...more studying that has been my motto.
So my first night in the US. So exciting. I had the most amazing ride to my new home. I must say that i took in all of the sights while sitting quietly on my new Peeps lap. We got home and I do mean HOME...it felt like I belonged there all my life. I had a great dinner and probably drank a little more than I should ( whew...lucky no hangover this morning). Next it was Spa time. What a sensation...a warm bath....towel dried and then a blow dry and a comb out. What a looker I am. Next it was off to bed. My peeps put me under the covers and there I stayed until it was too hot...Ay chillala and I thought it was hot in ole Mexico. I settled in to my own bed around midnight and I don't think I moved all night. Big day I had as you well know. I bet you might have done the same thing when you got home.
Well today was a new day for me. We got up and took this incredible walk in Kit Carson Park. What a place, you can't believe the foliage...some much to pee on so much to sniff. I was great on the leash. I am pretty sure I have much more energy than my new Peeps and for sure my little bro Petey. So we all walked together for an hour and then I got to have another 30 min run...well run for me...a Plod for my Peep Becky. She isn't quite able to keep up my pace. I will work on her and have her in to shape in no time at all.
We are back from the park...had a little brunch...laid out on the patio and bagged some rays. I hear that we are off to Petsmart for a few items that I will need. I know that this is just the begining of many new adventures. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.
Michelle, you are my guardian angel, You have changed my life and I know the life of my Peeps forever.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU
With love and gratitude
Tijuana Tilley
aka Tilly, The Tills, Love Bug
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Tilly Update, written February 24, 2011
Well I have been here in these great United States just about 2 years now. What a 2 years it has been. I have had the opportunity to travel to some pretty neat places. I must say the Eastern Sierras have to rate up there as a favorite. Not only are there beautiful mountains,running streams with the coldest water ever, I get to spend time with 10-12 of my favorite fur people. We area sight on the trail. All of running ahead of our peeps, chasing squirrels and generally just enjoying the freedom of no leashes, no cars and lots of space to run.
I loved my trip to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons (although they really discriminate against those of us who have four feet). In spite of all their rules we had a memorable trip with lots of new smells and some of the craziest looking creatures I have ever seen.
I love the mountains but I now have a great appreciation for the ocean as well. We are a boating family now. I love to spend a few days each week at the bay lounging on the boat. Nothing like the wind blowing through your blond locks out on the open seas. My favorite place to hang when we are not out on the water is the dock. I am the official Dock 3 Dock Dog. One day I will catch one of those pesky seagulls. It is hard to catch a nap with them squawking all day.
I have put on a few lbs since my arrival in the US. I get a lot of exercise but I do love to eat and the food here is quite good. I get my fair share of treats because apparently I do some pretty adorable things. I love my life and I am so grateful for my friends at FHSTJ.
With Love and Gratitude
"Tijuana Tilly" (Tilly for short)
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