Our Beautiful and Gentle Soul, Aisha.

Yesterday, our beloved Aisha was given her wings in my arms and was over 18 years old.

I still remember the moment I saw her photo in the local newspaper all those years ago. Her big, soulful brown eyes (which reminded me of a monkey!) captured my heart instantly. I knew I had to have her.

She came from the Mildura pound, where she had been found left in a backyard with her mother and siblings. Kind neighbours threw food over the fence until they were finally rescued. Sadly, all the rest of of her family were found to have heart defects and were euthanised. But Nixie was safe, the only one who came to VicDRG, as we found a surgeon who could operate—and against all odds, she went on to live a full and wonderful life.

We were so fortunate that Trish chose us to care for her. She quickly became part of our family, sharing her home with Scrappy Doo, another rescue who had suffered abuse and a brain injury. Despite his disability, she became his fierce protector, making sure no other dogs came near him at the park.

Aisha was by our side through so many adventures—bush holidays chasing kangaroos, locking eyes with swans at Kakarook Park (where she always lost and had to run away!), and countless beach days, her absolute favorite.

For years, she and Scrappy came to work with me, sitting on my disabled clients’ laps, receiving endless love, hugs, and sloppy wet kisses. Bianca and all of my clients adored her, and they, too, are grieving her loss.

Even in my hardest times, Aisha was my rock. She helped me through my numerous medical treatments and procedures—I truly don’t think I could have done it without her.

On her last days we returned to see the swans and the beach, where she walked in the water, sat in the breeze, and soaked in the beauty of the world one last time. It was her final happy place, apart from home with me and her family of magpies.

Aisha has left an enormous hole in my heart, one that will take a long time to heal. I’ve never been without a dog in my life, but she was one of the truly special ones.

I hope she is now running free with Scrappy Doo, her best friend, and all of my other beloved rescue dogs and cats who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

Thank you for choosing us to love and care for this sweet, gentle girl. It was an absolute privilege.