I just signed a petition calling on Canine Partners for Life (CPL) to immediately stop the confiscation of Livy from Diane Rowden and to allow her to stay with the family that has cared for her.

Two years ago, Megan Esherick from CPL asked Bruce Hicks just before his death, "If there is someone you would like [Livy] to be placed with, please provide us with their name and contact information." Bruce sent her Diane Rowden's name as the person he wanted to care for Livy, his companion who had been by his side for seven year. After his death, CPL demanded Livy's return and filed suit against Bruce's estate and Diane Rowden.

Livy, who is now 11-years old, suffers from periods of lamness caused by arthritis and severe anxiety brought on by thunderstorms. She is developing cataracts.  Her conditions, according to her veterinarian, "would significantly affect Livy's work as a service dog," and "the chronic and progressive nature of these conditions would continue to make her unsuitable as a canine service partner."

At her age and in her condition, Livy would be an unsuitable canine companion. She deserves to live the remainder of her life in a safe home with a family that loves her. Diane Rowden, at the bequest of Bruce Hicks, has cared for Livy and provided her with a safe and loving home for the last two years.  

We recognize that CPL is committed to ensuring the health and welfare of the animals they train. The animals provide an invaluable service to improving the quality of life of those they serve.

We implore that CPL applied these same values to Livy. By allowing her to stay in her current home, CPL would reduce undue stress and anxiety on an already stressed dog, and they would show their committment to improving the quality of life of a dog who spent her life improving someone else's life.

http://savelivy.weebly.com/