Gypsy, Tramp & family came to AARF thanks to a phone call from a good samaritan who found the 4 pups while visiting a grave site at Forest Lawn Cemetary. He quickly notified AARF that there were more pups plus Mom & Dad in need of rescue. Volunteers immediately set to work setting up traps in order to capture the remaining family members. "Mom" (Gypsy) a beautiful 2 year old collie/husky mix, was the first to be rescued and was immediately reunited with her 4 pups. As the days went by, two more pups came in.

Although Gyspy was obviously happy to see them, she still seemed depressed and sad about something. Finally we captured the elusive Tramp, otherwise known as "Dad" who turned out to be a 3 year old shepard/husky mix. The reunion of Gypsy & Tramp was a pleasure to behold, the likes of which the AARF volunteers had never before seen. Gypsy immediately perked up when she saw Tramp and the nuzzling and kissing went on for quite sometime. The pups too, were happy to see their "Dad" once again. The pups, although full of ticks & fleas were in good health, while Mom and dad had a longer path to recovery. Both had heartworm, Tramp had them especially bad and did not fare well through the first treatment.

That is when Heather & Eric Racer came into the picture. Knowing that separating Gypsy and Tramp would further complicate their recovery these devoted foster parents decided to take them both in. They have seen first hand the unmistakable devotion these two have for one another. Heather writes, "While I have always understood the unbreakable bond that often exists between a dog and his or her human, Gypsy & Tramp introduced me to the unconditional love that two dogs can have for one another. Their first night at our house, Tramp stood bravely between Gypsy and my husband to protect her from the camera that we were using to take their pictures. Tramp still refuses to eat unless Gypsy is in the room with him, and Gypsy whines if they are separated for even a few minutes before bedtime. Every so often we catch the two of them snuggling against one another like two people in love. While Gypsy & Tramp are certainly a dedicated couple, they have individual personalities as well. Gypsy is very gentle & ladylike with exquisite manners, though she does have a penchant for stealing socks. Tramp, on the other hand, is naturally happy and loves life. He smiles constantly and enjoys a good cuddle or ball game. Gypsy and Tramp are more than best friends; they remind me of a devoted married couple. The love that these two share with one another can only be multiplied when they find a loving home where they can spend the rest of their lives together."

The happiest of endings came on July 3rd when both Gypsy & Tramp moved into their new home with Sam and Gwen Hopkins. This great couple understood the importance of keeping the two together. Gypsy seemed to sense immediately that this was where she belonged and settled comfortably down on the living room rug for a snooze. Tramp was “on the alert” for about 24 hrs. but quickly responded to the love, attention (and treats) that Gwen and Sam showered on him. The two now enjoy their daily brushings and love sessions. On their daily walks, Gypsy & Tramp strut proudly, secure in knowing which sidewalk now leads them home.