[BonBon]

A co-worker just found out that I had adopted Jordy from a rescue group last November. I told her that he had come from a puppy mill and wasn't in the best condition when he was rescued.

She had two things to say:
1) How old was he? - When I answered that he's now 2 years old, she said
2) "That's good you didn't have to potty train him."

WTH?!?! My jaw dropped onto my desk!!!

Anyway, our conversation was by e-mail so I'm posting my reply below. My question is: was I too harsh or abrupt with her? I do have to work with her after all.

My response: "Um, well, he was raised in a puppy mill.

That means he was kept in a cage 24/7, never saw daylight, never got to play, never touched grass, never felt the human touch, never received affection, never bathed, never groomed and he had to live in his own filth because there was no where for him to go in that tiny cage. He was bigger than the 2 pounders the puppy millers want to use for studs, so he was ignored and starved. When the rescue got him he was filthy, matted, with sores and ear infections - I could go on and on about Jordy alone. When I got him he had no idea how to play, he didn't have a clue what to do with a toy or a treat, and he didn't know what to think when I patted or hugged him. Thank God he wasn't the only one rescued that day.

So, yes, we are still working on potty training him. But now, he plays like a puppy, loves his toys and treats, and lets me know when he's ready for huggins and kissins (he loves to sit on my lap). He also tolerates grooming time much better than the others! He has the SWEETEST, gentlest personality of any dog I've ever known and he has adjusted so well. I'm so proud of him!!!"