Several times since it’s inception, NISA has been able to help helpless Samoyed strays facing a not-so-happy-ending future at a local shelter or pound and each one is a story in and of itself. None-the-less this story reads like a Fairy Tale come true; a diabetic dog, with a raging urinary infection, and blind with cataracts tossed to the street like a bag of trash finds help, improved health, and happiness among strangers.

Parker, pictured here, was plucked from harms way from a local shelter with the help of shelter volunteer, Becky Monroe, early in September 2007. A sweet natured dog he was, but hidden behind his easy going demeanor and wagging tail lurked major health issues.

Following his intake Parker was hospitalized for over a month, dangerously high and dangerously low glucose levels plagued his body until he finally stabilized in November. The cost $2147. The next hurdle, transporting him to long-time NISA member Dr. Kathleen McManamon who volunteered to provide continued care, was in part covered by Bob Gilles, with Steve and Pat Jacobson covering the longest and final lap of Parkers’ journey to Champaign, IL.

Dr. McManamon (Doc Mac) instantly fell in love with him! Soon after his arrival arrangements were made for Parkers cataract surgery at the U. of I., which successfully restored his vision 100%. The cost $3100. But keeping him once he regained his sight was not an option, Parker viewed Doc Mac’s cockatoo, Millie, as if she were a “snack!”

The final chapter in Parker’s fairy tale came in the form of an application to adopt from Patty Potts of Ohio. With prior experience managing canine diabetes, Patty was a perfect candidate. “IF” she was willing to take on a special needs dog, that is.

Alan Zielisnki was called upon to contact Patty to discuss Parker and his need for a very special human in his life. We’ll never know if it was Alan’s persuasive ways or Parkers handsomeness that swayed Patty but it was a go!

 January 27th Patty, her good friend, Rod, and little Casey-chew, a lab-mix, headed off to Champaign to meet Parker and possibly bring him home.

The smiles pretty much sum up the outcome!

Time was spent getting acquainted; Casey liked the idea of a big (real big) brother and Parker was luv-struck at first SIGHT (pun intended!) so it was time to cover details. Doc and Patty discussed follow-up eye check-ups, insulin needs and dietary recommendations and soon Parker was headed off to his FUR-EVER home — as Patty put it.

From the street to a loving home, all fixed and repaired with a little help from 7 strangers and a big bunch of generous supporters who cared.    And, so ends our fairy tale —