“This one is for all the street animals, my dearest friends! My name is Bianca, and I joined my beloved family on Thanksgiving 2004 when I was just over one year old. Like most shelter animals, the beginning of my life was traumatic. I was abused, neglected, and abandoned twice. Evidently, I was a cute puppy, but I grew up to be an ordinary-looking dog who was bigger than expected, so my owner just left me on the street to fend for myself. A kind, old woman took me in, but her health deteriorated rapidly, and she went into a nursing home. Once again, I became a street dog — not a pretty picture.

“When my mother came to the humane society to answer the call I put out for her, it was love at first sight for us both. Her name was Luise. When she brought me home, I was sick and terrified. My mom promised to never abandon me, take good care of me, and love me. Well, over time, I learned to trust people again, especially my loving mom.

“Mom learned quite quickly that I was a special dog. I felt more like a person. Mom says that I had the most beautiful disposition: I was extremely sensitive, gentle, kind, and considerate, and I had a great sense of humor! Because of my heightened sensitivity, I had difficulty dealing with loud noises of any kind, but I never caused any concerns or worries. I loved my time with Mom, especially walking and playing! Mom always told me that everyone who met me fell in love with me because I was so easygoing."