Story #35: The Gift of Ten Years
As told by Bill and Liz Kling, Adopters
Merry, Forever Our Girl
We first met Merry at an adoption event in Elmhurst. She was so small, so adorable, and so full of sweetness that we could not imagine leaving without her. From that moment on, she became part of our family.
For ten wonderful years, Merry filled our home with love.
She was affectionate, deeply attached to us, and always wanted to be close. She wanted to be involved in everything and made sure we knew when she wanted attention.
Merry was not an easy dog. She was high-maintenance and demanding in ways that tested us at times. But she was also incredibly loving, loyal, and completely ours. Loving Merry meant showing up every day, even when it was hard.
About four years ago, our lives changed when Merry was diagnosed with Addison’s Disease.
We were scared and overwhelmed, but with the guidance and care of our wonderful veterinarian, Dr. Czapor, we learned how to manage her condition. Together, we gave Merry stability, comfort, and as much joy as possible.
She trusted us completely. That trust shaped how we cared for her and how we learned to slow down and be patient.
In the last few months, we began to notice her back hips and legs weakening.
Slowly, she lost her mobility. Over the New Year weekend, her condition worsened and she became incapacitated. We knew then that we were facing the hardest decision a family can make.
Two weeks ago, we said goodbye.
The house feels different now. The quiet is heavier. The places where Merry used to rest, follow us, or ask for one more moment of closeness feel painfully empty. We miss her every single day.
We are grateful to still have her sister, also a rescue, who helps us through the grief and reminds us that love continues even after loss.
Caring for a dog with Addison’s Disease and mobility issues taught us more than we ever expected.
Merry gave us patience, empathy, and perspective. She showed us what it means to love fully, especially when that love asks for more time, more energy, and more heart.
Merry’s passing is what compelled us to share her story.
Merry was not just a dog.
She was family.
And she always will be.
Ready to start your own rescue story?
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