April 10, 2026...Sixteen years ago, Saturday morning April 10 in 2010, I went to Petco to buy rabbit litter for Trix. It was six weeks and three days since Sophie left us and I was in the "no way, I won't ever go through that sorrow again" frame of mind. It was adoption day and on my way out I noticed a small, buff colored dog acting like it needed to pee. Some ladies from YAPS were standing and chatting there, not really paying attention so I said "I think that dog has to pee." One lady threw down a pee pad and you went right to it. I figured then that you were a little girl and looked to be a young cocker spaniel. I walked by and said "Look, she's being a good girl...just like Sophie!" and I left the store. Later I thought about you and said out loud..."I hope that little cocker gets a home." You popped into my mind again after a few hours and I said..."I hope the L C gets a home." Later that afternoon I went back to Petco to ask about your story. You were still there and the YAPS ladies were packing up to leave. One of them suggested I take you outside for a little walk and I said that wasn't necessary, just wanted to know how you got there. This group had rescued you and others from a shelter, got you all cleaned up and healthy, to give you a second chance. She insisted that I take you out for a few minutes and by the time we got back inside she was already filling out your adoption paperwork. Interesting since I don't recall committing to anything yet??!! ...but fate made the decision for me. Your name at the time was "Cayenne" which I thought was just wrong. She asked what I wanted to call you and it hit me...little cocker...the L C...ELSIE! And so it began.

To be continued...

Please also visit CHOPPER, Lucy, Poppet, Sara, Sophie, Trix and Wilson.