Einstein came to TOESR as probably the worst case of animal neglect we've ever seen. According to the shelter where he was picked up, his entire approximately 8 yrs of life had been on the end of a chain in his owner's backyard, without human contact or obviously any concerns for his health. His large frame that should have carried 85-90 lbs, weighed 35 lbs, basically the weight of his bones and internal organs. He was plagued by a huge wraparound tumor on his right rear leg, had infections in both ears and eyes, wasn't neutered, every parasite a dog could have and after his initial vet visit, heartworms. Slowly we worked on each issue. He gained weight, infections and parasites eliminated and once he was able to survive surgery, had the tumor removed and was neutered. While waiting for heartworm treatments to begin, Einstein suffered an almost fatal trama. Again his will to live saw him through and he went on to successfully complete treatments. Then the wait began. Although his story was heartbreaking and stirred up conversation about the miracle dog, only a handful of potential adopters expressed interest and ultimately no one stepped up to provide a final home for him. We watched him enjoy the simple acts of lying in the sun, of meandering aimlessly and of having people pay attention to him, giving him a kind touch and speaking his name.

Einstein's epic 'will to live' has come to an end. He passed away the first weekend of October 2013 after a week of irreversible deterioration. Saying we did what we could sounds so cliche' and it certainly doesn't take the ache away from my heart but if there's any consolation to his story, it's that he's no longer in pain. While he was with us, he knew love. RIP Einstein. You'll not be forgotten.