Canines possess a unique personality that distinguishes them from other animals. Their cheerful and lively demeanor is well-known, capable of turning any environment into a joyful setting, thereby bringing happiness to those around them. Even dogs that have experienced abuse or neglect show remarkable resilience and forgiveness. Their core essence is one of pure affection, which allows them to achieve incredible feats through their love.
Kardi, a lovable pet with fur, has turned her owner’s life around by bringing a unique kind of love into it. Despite going through a rough start in life, Kardi’s fate took a turn for the better when she was taken under Kelsey’s care. For Kardi, being showered with genuine affection by Kelsey was a life-altering experience, as shared by Kelsey, who takes care of her furry friend wholeheartedly.
It was pure luck that I crossed paths with Kardi on October 11, 2012. She had been abandoned by her cruel breeder and had already gone through a spaying procedure when we met. It broke my heart to learn that she had spent her early years confined to a tiny cage. Despite her traumatic past, I had a strong feeling that Kardi was capable of giving and receiving love. So, without hesitation, I decided to take her into my home where she would be safe, cared for, and most importantly, loved abundantly.
Initially, when Kardi arrived, she was rather timid and unsure of herself. However, in no time, she adapted to her new surroundings and found comfort in being there. She became my constant companion and, as a student, managed to make numerous acquaintances. Kardi is the embodiment of a French bulldog clown, always ready to spread joy and laughter with her humorous demeanor. Her charming personality is infectious, and she can’t go anywhere without carrying her favorite toy in her mouth because she adores them.
When my furry friend isn’t busy playing with her toys, she likes to relax and take a breather. We share a special bond, and she loves to follow me wherever I go. She’s my loyal companion and a true mommy’s girl.
When Kardi was in college, she had a firsthand experience of a heart-wrenching incident where her friend’s sibling passed away suddenly. She observed the immense suffering and emotional pain that her friend’s family went through during that tough time. This made Kardi realize the significance of extending emotional support during such difficult times. She took it upon herself to stay by her friend’s brother’s side for long hours, providing comfort and even bringing him toys to help ease his pain. Her innate talent for providing emotional therapy proved that she would make a perfect therapy dog.
Back in 2015, Kardi and Kelsey joined forces to become an official therapy team. Kelsey had noticed Kardi’s natural talent for helping others and they both embarked on a journey of assisting Alzheimer’s patients. Kardi would nudge their hands and patiently remind them to continue petting her. This brought joy to many people in different settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, summer camps, and classrooms. However, their journey took a difficult turn when Kardi was diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). At just four years old, Kardi became paralyzed and lost control of her bowels due to the condition. Despite this setback, Kardi remained optimistic and happy. IVDD is caused by premature aging and hardening of spinal discs, which can rupture into the spinal column. Sadly, Kardi wasn’t eligible for surgery due to other health complications.
Kardi’s unwavering resilience during her time of paralysis was truly remarkable. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remained optimistic and continued to work towards improving herself every day. Through sheer perseverance, Kardi learned how to move around on her front legs with ease and even managed to keep up with the pace of an average adult. Her tenacity did not go unnoticed as a group of compassionate individuals from the veterinary clinic where her owners worked came together to purchase a pink Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair for her. Kardi was overjoyed when she first tried her new wheelchair and has been unstoppable ever since.
Kardi has adapted exceptionally well to her wheelchair and primarily uses it for outdoor activities. She prefers to wheel around the house independently, having taught herself how to climb stairs, take turns, and even lay down in her chair. Kardi’s impressive speed and agility in her wheelchair have garnered her quite a bit of attention, including being featured in multiple Walkin’ Pets calendars and winning a Budweiser Clydesdale Halloween costume competition in 2019. Additionally, Kardi enjoys spending quality time with her sister Bonnie Rose, with whom she wears matching costumes while pulling her in a cart.
After getting used to her new wheelchair, Kardi faced a new obstacle when she was diagnosed with bladder cancer (TCC) due to hereditary health issues resulting from poor breeding practices. An ultrasound in March 2020 confirmed the diagnosis, and Kardi’s internal medicine specialist discussed treatment options, but unfortunately, none were viable due to her pre-existing medications. The prognosis looked bleak, and Kardi was given only 3-6 months to live – devastating news for her owner, Kelsey, who had always envisioned Kardi being by her side on her wedding day. But Kelsey was determined to give Kardi the best possible chance and supported her throughout her battle. Despite all the challenges, Kardi’s strength and resilience were a constant source of inspiration to Kelsey. Kardi was not just a pet, but a soul dog and an essential partner to Kelsey. Their connection was unique, and despite the odds, Kelsey never lost the faith that Kardi would be there for her special day. With Kardi being a beloved member of the family, both Kelsey and her husband wanted her to be present at their wedding.
Kardi and Kelsey were an unexpectedly strong and resilient duo, defying the odds of a short lifespan. Despite being given only three to six months to live, Kardi exceeded initial expectations by surviving until February of the following year. A highlight of Kardi’s life was attending her owner’s wedding, where she was even the star of the show. During the nuptials, Kardi was incorporated into the bridal photoshoot, and special moments between her and her human were captured. Moreover, Kardi and her sister, Bonnie Rose, who has special needs, had important roles as flower girls and were wheeled down the aisle in a wagon adorned with flowers. Kardi even followed the newlyweds during the sparkler send-off while pulling cans marked “just married.”
Kardi’s inspiring story is a testament to the love and support that can help dogs overcome numerous challenges. Despite starting her life unloved and unnoticed in a cage, Kardi has won many fans and a loving family who treat her like one of their own. Kelsey and her husband deeply care for their dogs and often take them wherever they go, particularly having a passion for caring for specially-abled dogs.
Don’t forget to connect with Kardi on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and show your support as she bravely faces her challenges. In March 2022, Kardi displayed incredible strength by attending her owner’s wedding despite receiving a devastating diagnosis. Sadly, Kardi has passed away, even though she was given only 3-6 months to live almost two years ago. However, thanks to the immense love from her family and friends, Kardi fought fiercely and lived a life that will continue to inspire dog lovers for many more years. Kelsey, Kardi’s owner, announced on Facebook the news of Kardi’s departure and expressed her gratitude to everyone who offered love and support to her dear companion.