Dogs have an incredible character that sets them apart. They are famous for their upbeat and lively disposition, which can transform any space into a happy place, bringing joy to people’s lives. Even canines that have suffered from mistreatment or negligence exhibit an exceptional capacity for forgiveness and toughness. Their essence is one of pure love, and they can accomplish amazing things with their affection.
Kardi, a furry companion, has transformed her life by transforming love into something extraordinary. Even though she had a miserable start, everything took a positive turn when she was adopted by Kelsey. Kardi felt true affection for the first time with Kelsey, and this was a game-changer in her life, according to Kelsey, who is Kardi’s ultimate caretaker.
I consider myself lucky to have met Kardi on October 11, 2012. She was a victim of abandonment by a cruel breeder and had undergone spaying at a young age of two. Adding to my despair was the fact that she spent her formative years locked in a cramped cage. Despite all of her past ordeals, I was confident that Kardi possessed an innate capacity to shower love and affection. Therefore, I didn’t think twice before welcoming her into my home where she was guaranteed safety, care, and above all, an abundance of love.
At first, Kardi was quite shy and hesitant, but she quickly got used to her new environment and began to feel at ease. She accompanied me everywhere, and as a college student, she made many new friends. Kardi is the epitome of a French bulldog jester, always ready to bring smiles and happiness with her funny antics. Her amusing character is contagious, and she never goes anywhere without a toy in her mouth because she absolutely loves them.
When my beloved pet is not occupied playing with her toys, she loves to rest. She has formed a deep connection with me, her mother, and follows me around wherever I may go. Often referred to as my constant companion, she is certainly a dedicated mommy’s little girl.
During Kardi’s college days, she witnessed a heart-wrenching incident where her friend’s brother passed away unexpectedly. Witnessing the immense pain and suffering of her friend’s family, Kardi realized the importance of providing emotional support during such difficult times. She took it upon herself to spend long hours comforting her friend’s brother by sitting beside him and even brought him toys to ease his pain. Her natural ability to provide emotional therapy made her an ideal therapy dog.
Kardi and Kelsey started working as an official therapy team in 2015 after Kelsey noticed Kardi’s natural talent for it. Kardi specialized in assisting Alzheimer’s patients and often nudged their hands to remind them to keep petting her, providing joy to people in nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, classrooms, and summer camps. However, the pair experienced difficult times that year when Kardi was diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This condition caused Kardi to become paralyzed at the young age of four and lose bowel control. Despite this challenge, Kardi remained optimistic and happy. IVDD is caused by premature aging and hardening of spinal discs, which can rupture into the spinal column. Unfortunately, Kardi was not a candidate for surgery due to other health issues.
Kardi’s strong spirit during her paralysis was truly inspiring. Despite the difficulties, she maintained a positive attitude and continued to grow stronger each day. In a short amount of time, Kardi became skilled at moving herself around on her front legs and could even keep up with the pace of an average adult walking. Her determination did not go unnoticed as a group of compassionate individuals at the veterinary clinic where her owners worked came together to purchase a pink Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair for Kardi. She was thrilled when she first tried out her new wheelchair and has been unstoppable ever since.
Kardi has adapted remarkably well to her wheelchair and mainly uses it for outdoor activities, as she prefers to scoot around the house independently. She has taught herself how to climb stairs, turn corners, and even lay down in her chair. Kardi’s speed and agility in her wheelchair have brought her quite a bit of fame, including being featured in multiple Walkin’ Pets calendars and winning a Budweiser Clydesdale Halloween costume contest in 2019. Kardi also loves spending time with her sister Bonnie Rose, whom she pulls in a cart while wearing matching costumes.
Once Kardi had grown accustomed to her new wheelchair, a new challenge arose. Unfortunately, due to poor breeding practices resulting in hereditary health issues, Kardi developed bladder cancer (TCC) that was confirmed through an ultrasound in March of 2020. Kardi’s internal medicine specialist discussed various treatment options, but none were viable due to her pre-existing medications. The prognosis was grim, with Kardi given only 3-6 months to live. This news was devastating to Kardi’s owner, Kelsey, who had always dreamed of having her beloved pet by her side on her wedding day. Despite the odds against her, Kelsey was determined to give Kardi the best chance possible and stood by her side throughout her battle. Through all the ups and downs, Kardi’s strength and resilience were a constant inspiration to Kelsey. Kardi was more than just a pet to her; she was a soul dog and an essential partner. Kardi’s connection with Kelsey was unique, and despite the challenges, Kelsey never lost faith that Kardi would be present at her wedding. Kardi was a beloved member of the family, and both Kelsey and her husband wanted her to be there for their special day.
Kardi and Kelsey proved to be an unexpectedly resilient and strong pair. Despite being given just three to six months to live, Kardi managed to survive until February of the following year, far exceeding initial expectations. Her owner’s wedding was a highlight of Kardi’s life, and Kelsey even describes her as the star of the show.
During the wedding, Kardi was incorporated into the bridal photoshoot, and several special moments between Kardi and her human were captured. Kardi and her sister Bonnie Rose, who has special needs, were the flower girls and were wheeled down the aisle in a wagon adorned with flowers. Kardi even followed the newlyweds to their car during the sparkler send-off while pulling cans behind her that were marked with the words “just married.”
Kardi’s story is an inspiration for all dog lovers out there. Despite starting her life in a cage, unloved and unnoticed, she has managed to overcome numerous challenges with the love and support of her owner. Kardi’s incredible journey has won her many fans and a loving family who treat her like one of their own.
Kelsey and her husband have an undying affection for their dogs and often take them wherever they go. They have a particular soft spot for specially-abled dogs and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Be sure to follow Kardi on her social media profiles such as Facebook and Instagram, and offer your encouragement as she faces her challenges with courage. An update as of March 2022: Kardi demonstrated a remarkable show of strength by attending her owner’s wedding day despite receiving a heartbreaking diagnosis. Kelsey, Kardi’s owner, recently reported to iHeartDogs that Kardi has passed away, even after being diagnosed with only 3-6 months to live nearly two years ago. With the abundant love from her family and friends, Kardi fought fiercely and lived a life that will inspire dog lovers for years to come. Kelsey took to Facebook to share the news of Kardi’s final farewell and to extend her appreciation to everyone who showed love and support for her beloved companion.