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July 29, 2004

 

We have been touched deeply by the many people from all over the world who have expressed concern for Melody, the little puppy who was set on fire a month ago. I am saddened to say that we euthanized Melody today, July 29.

Many of you have had her in your prayers, and many have written to us several times to check on her progress. Others sent plush toys for Melody, some sent blessings and even food for her caretakers. We thank you.

Melody came to us at the Tulsa SPCA clinic a mere baby, a victim of torture at the hands of terrible people. Yet she was always an outgoing, happy girl. She never failed to greet any stranger. Oddly, she never showed fear toward any person she met. As her burns healed and she felt better, we discovered Melody’s talkative side. Anyone who has ever known a shepherd or husky knows that some dogs like to comment on everything, and Melody was a talker. No one who met her could resist her sunny attitude and conversational skills.

Then we began to see the signs that there was a silent killer stalking Melody. The later signs of distemper are a signal that the war is not going well; still, many dogs do recover from distemper, even in the later stages. Melody maintained her happy demeanor despite the gradual worsening of her condition. She still had a kiss and a hug for everyone. But today, her condition worsened dramatically, and there were no kisses. Instead, Melody’s eyes told us that she was ready to leave us. We held her and told her we loved her as she left us.

 

Melody’s life, short and brutal as it was, should not be forgotten. Her story touched so many people, and her love touched those who knew her. We should remember her love of life and her ability to forgive, for we can all learn something from it.

Melody also showed the world the reality of animal cruelty. For awhile, the faceless and unknown victims of abuse had a real spokesman. She showed the world that these victims are real, and that they look just like our own pets. Like our own pets, they ask nothing but to be allowed to live and share their lives with us.

Across the world- in every country, city and town- there are millions of Melodys. Every day, animals are victims of terrible cruelty and suffer unspeakable misery. Unlike Melody, most die alone and unloved. But like Melody, they feel pain and they suffer; and, like Melody, they deserve better. So if Melody touched you, please don’t let her life be in vain. Look around your own community, and see the suffering. Act to stop it. Join your local humane society or SPCA as a volunteer. Support their efforts to fight cruelty and to strengthen your community’s anti-cruelty laws. Until we all stand up and protect them, countless more Melodys will suffer and die. 

 

Dr. Connie Wright

TSPCA veterinarian

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