Sophie

Sophie was my first Greyhound. She came to me in February 1993, and forever changed my life. She was an alpha bitch extraordinaire, but the kind that was ultimately secure in her position; she ruled with an iron fist in an exquisitely velvet glove. She was the funniest dog I have ever met, and had a finely honed sense of humor and the best smile I have ever seen. She was endlessly cheerful, even during times of duress and pain managed to flash that sweet smile, and delighted in playing games with toys and jokes on her human and canine friends. She taught me so much about courage and resilience and grace under pressure.

Sophie was officially retired from competitive performance activities before she ever really began, when she broke her leg at the last turn of her second JC test in November 1996. It was testament to her great heart that she insisted on finishing her run despite her injury and the judges awarded her the title she so rightfully deserved. Her leg was surgically repaired, and healed uneventfully, allowing her full involvement in normal canine activities.

Sophie was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in February 2002. She faced her illness with the same courage, dignity and humor with which she had faced everything in her life. Sophie passed away 6 weeks after her diagnosis, just a few months shy of her 12th birthday. She was the grand old lady at here at Serendipity, and we all miss her terribly.