3-20-16. Matilda (aka Tilly) arrived to HUGS on New Year's day in very poor shape. She came from a kill shelter in California, where she had been dumped. During transport, it became clear that something was medically wrong with Tilly. Upon arrival she was hospitalized and shortly after, she was diagnosed with cancer. She was given 2-6 months to live, and unfortunately our sweet girl just lost her fight. Her wonderful foster parents were with her until the end, loving her and treating her like a member of the family; because to them, that's what she was. Matilda especially loved her foster dad and had an incredible bond with him. Although we are deeply saddened by her loss, and wish she could have had more time here, we are also happy that she crossed the bridge knowing she was loved. This is what her amazing foster mom had to say about their experience with Tilly: "Although Tilly was only with us for a few short months, we knew she was happy and she knew she was very loved. Many have asked us how we could foster a dog knowing we would lose her within a short time. My answer? How could we not? She had been a stray and was in horrible condition when she came into rescue. We wanted to give her the best life we knew how, for however long she would be with us. Would we do it again knowing the outcome? Absolutely. We are much better people for having known Tilly. She was such a sweet spirit. Run free, Tilly." Special thank you to everyone who played a part in her rescue, including the Miracle GSD Network, HUGS volunteers Gisele, Brian and Kimberly for dropping everything and driving all the way to California to bring her into rescue, and most of all to foster parents Dave and Donna, for being Tilly's loving family and angels all the way until the end. We are so thankful for your family. RIP Tilly, your life mattered.