Foal Farm Animal Rescue Center

Name: Tessa

Owner: Simon and Jenny Bettridge

Tribute: In August of 2004 we had taken the decision, having recently moved into our new house in a leafy area of Kent, to look for a new addition to our family – a nice small puppy. We looked around several rescue centres not finding any suitable dogs, until we arrived a Foal. Jenny immediately fell in love with a seven year old huge mastiff cross called Tessa – despite being everything that we weren’t looking for, it was love at first sight. It is often said that a pet chooses their owner and this was definitely the case with Tessa. She had been at Foal for over a year, loved by all of the volunteers and staff, but because she was deemed as not being suited to a home with other pets or children was still awaiting her new home. We went through a process of visiting Foal to get acquainted with her and to make sure that we were all happy. We fell in love with her straight away, and seemingly her with us. When it came to taking her home on a host 14th August 2004 we couldn’t have been more excited and we found out on the ride home that neither could Tessa. She covered the two of us and the car in fur and slobber! We were both covered in kisses all the way home! Over the last six years Tessa has become such an integral part of our lives – not a pet, but our friend. The happiest, silliest and soppiest, most lovable dog we have ever known. Unfortunately today (1st June 2010) we had to take the heart-breaking decision to put her to sleep as she had an inoperable cancerous growth and it had started to affect her life. This is the most difficult decision either of us has ever had to make, and although we know it is the right one and best for Tessa we are devastated and miss her terribly. Rest in peace Tess, our baby, we love you to pieces always. Simon & Jen. XX

Name: Dizzy

Owner: Kerry Brady

Tribute: I had the heartbreaking decision to have my little cat, Dizzy, put to sleep on Saturday. I adopted her from Foal Farm in 2002, when I was looking for a "flat cat" and we happened to be perfect for each other. Sadly, she was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2007 and was on special renal tablets and renal pouch food for the remainder of her life. I made the decision to let her live with my father who is retired and my sister, so that she could have 24 hour care and company. My sister treated her like a little princess which was perfect for Dizzy. The vets were always amazed at how she had lived so long with the problems she had. Sadly, two weeks ago her health started to decline even more due to the kidneys, and although we were told she could have fluids pumped into her, she wouldn't have had much hope of seeing out the month. My sister and I stayed with her while she was put to sleep, as hard as it was, but we couldn't leave her. We said our goodbyes and told her she'd be pain free very soon. She'll be so missed by myself and my family. Thank you to Foal Farm for giving us 8 years together. I attach a photo of Diz in her better years. I think you'll agree she was the most beautiful cat!

Name: Rosie

Owner: Lynne Wainwright

Tribute: We adopted Rosie from FOAL, along with her older pal Chelsea 12 yrs ago. She was a stunning white cat who though very nervous was always very gentle and loving. Rosie was always very healthy until the last couple of years when she developed hyperthyroidism requiring surgery, she recovered well but then developed kidney failure and lastly hypertension and a worsening heart murmur. The vets were great and tried everything but sadly on 21st May 2010 it became very clear that Rosie was not improving and that her quality of life was very poor. We therefore took the heartbreaking decision to have her put to sleep. RIP Rosie you will never be forgotten –reunited now with Chelsea Lots of love Lynne, Rob, Dan and Emily xx

Name: Buck

Owner: Foal Farm

Tribute: It is with great sadness that we need to inform you that Buck passed away in his sleep on the 11th May. He was not poorly, nor did he suffer; the day before he had been his usual self, spending time with Barbara in the run as he did every weekend. We believe old age caught up with him at last, not that he noticed! Buck had many friends here and hopefully he knew that he was adored by everybody. He had spent most of his life with us, and loved his routine and the people he knew. We think that he kept misbehaving when we rehomed him so he could come back! Buck will be greatly missed but we are reassured by the fact he is in a far better place, where he can chase cats and small children to his heart’s desire… Thank you all for caring for him and making his time here more enjoyable. R.I.P Buck

Name: Pebbles

Owner: Perri Bewsey and family

Tribute: It is with great sadness that I have to tell you our dear Pebbles had to be put to sleep. We took her to the vets this Monday 23 November to have her teeth checked as she seemed to be having problems eating all the while thinking that it was just a routine visit and nothing to worry about. Unfortunately the vet gave us the devastating news that Pebbles had inoperable cancerous tumors in her mouth and that at best she would have only a few weeks. We took the hard but kindest decision we could which was to let her go so that she would not have to suffer. She went to sleep peacefully knowing she was fully loved. Though she was with us for such a short period of time only 19 months she brought us so much joy and laughter we called her our Queenie because she was so regal and ruled with an iron paw. She is missed so much but we know we were so lucky to have her. Thankyou for the gift of Pebbles.