Anna Marie Giannini was all praises for Tilly, a Tibetan spaniel puppy who held a special place in her heart. Unlike others, Giannini did not see Tilly’s differences as a flaw. To her, being different was a positive trait that made Tilly unique. Despite being labeled as “deformed” and deemed unadoptable, Giannini knew she had to save Tilly from being euthanized when she first learned about the situation.
Even before he finished uttering those dreadful words, I was head over heels for her and already mapping out our next year together in my thoughts. Tilly was diagnosed with a rare condition called short spine syndrome, which caused her to have a disproportionately short back and no neck due to compressed vertebrae.
Giannini cradled Tilly in his arms, amazed that nobody wanted such an adorable puppy. He reminisced about the time they first met, and how Tilly was just a filthy ball of fluff that fit perfectly in his hands. As they drove back home, Tilly lay on his lap and stared at him with her big, brown eyes. In that moment, Giannini knew that he needed Tilly as much as she needed him. He promised to never let her feel unwanted again.
Despite being born with a syndrome that caused her to have a short spine, Tilly hasn’t let it hold her back from doing anything that other dogs do. Giannini proudly shared that while her condition is visible, it hasn’t caused any health issues or complications in her life. Tilly’s body has adapted to her condition, and she continues to thrive in her happy home. Giannini has no doubt that Tilly will live a long and healthy life, filled with love and affection.
Giannini often forgets that Tilly is different from other dogs due to her physical limitations. However, Tilly occasionally needs assistance getting on and off furniture, which is why Giannini provides her with special stairs. Tilly’s stiff spine also prevents her from turning her head to scratch or chew, so Giannini takes the time to give her massages throughout the day. Despite her challenges, Tilly demonstrates gratitude for her loving home.
According to Giannini, Tilly sleeps like a human in bed with her, complete with a pillow and blanket. She always wants to be close to Giannini, even standing between her legs while she cooks or laying beside her while she does homework. Every hour or so, Tilly will come up to Giannini for kisses before returning to her spot. It seems like Tilly requires kisses to function properly!
Despite Tilly not seeing herself as different, her distinct appearance garners significant attention from both canines and humans when she’s out on the streets. According to Giannini, other dogs seem particularly curious and gentle towards Tilly. However, Tilly is unfazed by this and believes she is capable of anything. Her determination and desire to play with dogs of all sizes are a testament to her spirited nature. Every day, Tilly serves as a reminder for Giannini to appreciate life. Adopting Tilly was an uncertain decision, but her exceptional and loving personality has made Giannini grateful for being able to provide her with a good life and cherish their time together.
