We've lost a special dog

Dear Bruce died last week due to a "mystery" illness. Bruce arrived at the beach a few months ago in horrible condition. He had been in apparent fights with other dogs and was covered with mange. Sandra and Steve tended to him and got him looking - and feeling - much better. Then Rosina, a woman who has been a big supporter of animal rescue in Puerto Rico, found a home for him in Boston. Shortly after he arrived, Bruce, now named "Rocky", got sick. He had all kinds of problems but the vets could never determine what the problems were and how to fix them. John, Rocky's new owner, gave him all the love and medical attention in the world, but in the end, Rocky just wasn't strong enough to fight anymore. The decision to euthanize him was made on Wednesday. We are all so very sad for Rocky - and John. It's actually not that uncommon for dogs that have lived in the "wild" for a long period of time to take ill with unknown problems - especially those with serious mange since it severely compromises their immune systems. Rocky will be missed by us all. He made a special nest in our hearts.