Kaye Grivec, 60, Red Cliffs, Vic
Being an animal foster carer, I've minded many dogs over the years and I loved every single one. But sometimes one touches my heart in a special way. One of those exceptional pooches was Patches, a 17-year-old fox terrier who sang his way out of an untimely end and back into the arms of his loved ones.
It all began a few months ago when Patches was handed over to the Victorian Dog Rescue team, from Mildura Pound. I donate my time to the organisation so I always have unwanted animals in my care. Patches was given to me to look after and immediately, I knew he was special. Sadly he was handed into the pound after his elderly owner, Eddie, passed away.
Me and another neighbouring carer looked after Patches for a month, but his future wasn't looking good. I hated to think this beautiful little animal would end up being put to sleep, but sadly, that was the case for many abandoned pets. Elderly owners move to nursing homes, or they pass away and their family doesn't want to take their pet.
While Patches was staying with my neighbour, I answered a call from a woman claiming to be the daughter of Patches' deceased owner. Marie Vassallo, from Sydney, had got my number from the pound after learning that Patches had been handed in. She described my furry little friend, but I had to be sure we were talking about the right dog. 'Sing Happy Birthday to him and if he howls along with you, then he's our Patches,' Marie said.
I raced to where Patches was staying and started singing to him. At first he had a faraway look in his eyes. Then he made a little whining sound. Then suddenly he threw back his head and howled with all his might. I burst into tears. Patches had sung to save his life! Marie was thrilled to have found her dad's beloved little companion. It turns out Patches used to sing Italian songs with Eddie and whenever it was a family member's birthday, they both would sing - and howl - Happy Birthday over the phone.
We arranged to have Patches sent to live with Marie and her family. The transporter called me on his way back to tell me that the reunion was very special. Patches obviously knew her, and once he was in her arms, he snuggled in, determined to stay in Marie's welcoming embrace. I'm so glad Patches is now safe with a family who loves him.
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