Maryam Faresh's Blog - Posts Tagged "special-needs"

It's my first blog on goodreads and I hope to have many more to come. I'm going to start by simply introducing you to the little girl who didn't just change my life but changed my destiny, Daisy. Dais was born deafblind, we rescued her at 3months old she is now 4years old. The first two years as you will read about in her self titled book "Daisy”, were very difficult for all of us, but Daisy's strength and courage blew our minds which is why I knew I had to share her story. She along with our first special needs rescue, Louie our three legged cat, also inspired the first book in the children’s series, “What about Daisy?”

A lot has happened since rescued Daisy and I can’t wait to continue to share her journey. Let me know what you guys think of her story and let me know if you have any questions or if I can help you out if you ever decide to rescue a special needs pet.

Today in Los Angeles we had our first storm. (well what we in California consider a storm) The day started out just like any typical sunny day in LA. My husband Bruce took Daisy & Olivia to the park as usual. But this time on the way home Daisy curled up in a ball and started to shake. Nothing was different in her world, her schedule had not changed, she ate breakfast and played like crazy at the park. I reminded Bruce about the thunder storm that was predicted to come through this afternoon. In the past few years Daisy has become pretty accurate with predicting weather patterns. But because the weather changes so little in Los Angeles we forget how sensitive Daisy ultimately is. So as soon as the rain and thunder began I called Bruce and asked how Daisy was. He said a few minutes after the rain started she calmed down. Daisy is so sensitive to the world around her, which is why we work so hard to make life as comfortable and joyous as possible for her.

I had to share this story about a dog who was poisoned, then buried alive. You think that is crazy...well he survived! You have to read this as it will make you wonder how human beings could be so cruel, but then how in the same town different human beings could be so beautiful. And it will confirm what we already knew about the power of the animal spirit. You know Daisy & Louie being special needs, remind me everyday how courageous they are and in spite of their challenges how strong they are and their ability to love unconditionally. I only hope this little guy in the article finds a home who truly sees the power of his spirit and honors and loves him the way he should be.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10...

Last night What about Daisy? was invited to Atomic Dog Radio www.LaTalkradio.com for an interview. And here is where we learned about The Yello Dog Project, where if you see a dog with a yellow ribbon on the leash, this is a dog who needs some space, please do not approach. I love this concept as it is perfect for Daisy. Not that I don't want people approaching Daisy and/or being fearful or sad for Daisy, but rather the opposite. People will hopefully ask why she has the ribbon and I can then instruct them on how to properly meet Daisy. Daisy loves to meet new people as long as she feels safe meeting them. I hope others join in on the Yellow Dog Project as I feel it is a great opportunity to support special needs animals of ALL kinds.

Every year we fill the Christmas tree with gifts for our four legged kids. Olivia learned very early on how to open up presents just like as a child does. She pulls one gift out at a time and opens it up, tail wagging the whole time. Louie and Lilly our cats, watch and with a little encouragement will join in. But what about Daisy? you ask…well Daisy needs a little extra TLC. Olivia’s excitement can make her nervous and ultimately shy away from the experience. We have learned giving her a large treat to focus on while Olivia rips through the gifts keeps Daisy content.

The fascinating part to me is how Daisy can feel the change in the room through Olivia’s energy. She also becomes uncomfortable with the floor being filled with wrapping paper (problem with this is the cats favorite part of Christmas is of course the wrapping paper!) so each year we must find the balance so everyone enjoys the Holiday. Daisy has and does adapted to almost all new situations but one constant for her is to keep her “safe space” i.e. her home the same. Christmas or not we will always honor Daisy’s wish. Happy Holiday’s and Happy New Year!!