Kaiya

After I read the book, The Lost Dogs by Jim Gorant, I was impassioned to rescue a bonded pair of pit bulls from a similar situation.

We started our search for our bonded pair of pitties. We contacted Bad Rapp in Oakland to inquire if they had such a pair. They did not have any in their care, but they did receive a request to rescue a bonded pair from a woman in need. We were given her information and when we saw a picture, It was a done deal. Ali became obsessed with trying to find her to make sure they were not taken to one of the shelters where they would be separated and then, most likely, euthanized. He contacted all the shelters in the area. He frantically called the woman, Shireen, hoping she still had our future family members. Finally, she called him back and indicated she was at a shelter giving the dogs up and something told her to take them and run. So, she did.

Both were very sick. The humane society took them in to spay and neuter them. Kaiya was especially ill. She had been over bred and had pyometra, a severe infection in her uterus that could end in sepsis then death. They had to rush her into surgery. Unfortunately, she went into heat right before she got spayed.

Leo always had a soul mate bond with Kaiya. Ali believes Kaiya was his mom, as well, as his mate. I agree with him. Being separated from her in a strange place with strange people was overwhelming. He was out of his mind. Leo began to give up without Kaiya. We had to have Kaiya come to Laguna from Oakland even though she remained very ill and still healing from surgery.

Once that Leo and Kaiya reunited, Leo became to thrive. Now, the real work needed to start.

Rehabilitating Pit Bulls from fighting/breeding ring is an undertaking for the devoted, dedicated, and patient. The financial cost can be astronomical. With the numerous surgeries, vet visits, nutrition, medication, training, countless dog toys, and destruction of couches, shoes, belts, etc. the bill for the first year was around $13,000! Absolutely nuts! They were worth every penny.

Kaiya was a natural at therapy. She was perfect with the women with severe trauma. She was able to calm them and make them unconsciously pet her while they process. She had a true gift.

Kaiya was the most beautiful soul. She was quiet, stoic, and always protective. She would graciously lay in the doorway or yard keeping watch for any danger. When she saw a squirrel or animal, she was spring up effortlessly and sprint to catch the intruder. She was an excellent hunter. Her stealth and calm were that of a ninja. She had the love and compassion of Quan Yin and the elegance of Geisha. Her name Kaiya means ‘Forgiveness’ in Japanese. She was Japanese at heart and soul.