It was a dark and stormy night when I received a call from a Nevada Humane Society adopting family that could no longer care for Chester. I was unaware that he was the same dog that I had briefly considered adopting after the passing of my dear Charity in March of 2001. I had offered to evaluate him (utilizing SWAT's handy instructions) before being notified that he had already been adopted. At that time, I had offered my name and number to the adopting family as a resource since few are familiar with the Airedale traits but, sadly, never heard from them. When they called me in late December and said they couldn?t take him to their new house, I agreed to foster this guy for the weekend whilst Rusty, the SWAT representative, could arrange a pick up. Having been without an Airedale for 9 months, I had missed many airesnaps and playbows. He was pretty scruffy when I took him from his 'home' on a damp Friday night but quickly settled in. I was sure a haircut would make him more attractive and left him at an experienced groomer the next day. When I picked him up, I couldn?t believe the difference. I am CERTAIN that he knew he appeared quite the dandy. Over the course of the weekend, he worked his way into my heart.

Regrettably, some of his history came to light when I fell and broke my leg having slipped on black ice while walking him just 5 days after he arrived. It became apparent that he was apprehensive about men when the male paramedics were tending to my fracture. Later testing from an experienced pet handler indicated/confirmed that he had been abused. Needless to say, I'd love to smash the abuser(s) but right now, I'm just so happy with Chester. He is SUCH a dear. I can?t imagine life without him. I am so grateful for Airedale Rescue.

There are several miniature breeds neighbors' yards surrounding ours and they yap like crazy when Chester is busy making his 'rounds.' He LOVES to meet new people and he's crazy about meeting new dogs. I truly cannot imagine life without him now. I am forever grateful that he arrived when he did.

Sallie Moore

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