Josie

CILRA rescued Josie as a 3-year old neglected back-yard breeder Lab in 2019. This sweet black beauty was terrified of everything, including thunderstorms, fireworks, loud noises, and only wanted to live in a closet. She didn’t know how to play with toys, accept affection from people or walk on a leash. We fell in love with her immediately. The first day she came to live with us, she went into heat and had to endure diapers. After she was spayed, she endured the cone of shame for a time as well. Most of her teeth were infected or broken; she was much more comfortable after they were removed. She slowly adapted to life with us, and learned that we loved her unconditionally and helped her come out of her shell a tiny bit each day. After one year, she welcomed a Lab mix brother to our pack. Josie later survived mast cell cancer, and was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease in 2024. After countless visits to Vets and specialists, and trying numerous adjustments to her diet and medications, it was finally determined that she had an adrenal tumor which made her body resistant to any form of treatment for Cushing’s. She lost her battle with that disease on July 11, 2025. Because Josie had such a troubled background and so many health challenges, it made her moments of delight and joy all the more special to us. Her favorite moments were breakfast and dinner, and she would do a little bouncy dance as the food dish came her way. She loved sunbathing in the grass, getting belly rubs, greeting new people or old friends, and going for walks when she was able. Our hearts melted every time we gazed into those beautiful brown eyes. As a foster family, dozens of dogs have come through our doors over the decades, but she was one of only a few who stayed. We miss her more than words can say.    — Dan & Barb L.