It’s with a heavy heart that I share some personal news that took place four months ago. Many may not know how much my sweet dog, Felix, meant to me. Rewatching old videos of our adventures together – the cross-country drives, the agility classes, our hikes and camping trips – has brought both immense joy and deep sadness. He was my constant companion, my furry soulmate, teaching me so much about unconditional love. He brought me joy, comforted me in tough times, and always made me feel cherished.
For those unfamiliar with his story, Felix was rescued from the streets of Tecate, Mexico. After spending months in various shelters, he was saved by his incredible godmother, Lisa Vanderpump, and her amazing rescue team. Lisa brought him to her Los Angeles rescue center, where he was pampered and spoiled, little did he know that an even brighter future awaited him!
Felix Caught in the Middle
When my partner David Steele Gleason and I separated, I faced an unexpected heartbreak. Knowing I couldn’t provide the space he needed in the city while working full-time, I made the difficult choice to let Felix go to California with David, believing he’d have a wonderful life there with more room to roam and be part of a larger family. It tore me apart, but I thought it was for the best.
Then, out of the blue, I received a text from David stating he could no longer care for Felix, deeming him unsuitable for his “new lifestyle.” This socked me, especially since he’s not working. The most devastating part was the ultimatum: I had two weeks to figure out how to bring Felix back to New York, manage his care with my job, and afford it all on my own, or David would surrender him back to the rescue.
David’s Callousness
Two weeks. That’s all the time I had. Logistically and financially, it felt impossible. It seemed like not just my marriage was ending, but a part of my heart was being ripped away once again.
Now, my sweet Felix, the dog rescued by Lisa Vanderpump, who traveled with me across the country four times and was my shadow, is back in a cage at the rescue. It’s been four months. My heart aches knowing he’s there, confused and missing the only home he’s ever truly known.
David Gleason‘s lack of empathy
I’ve tried to understand David’s perspective, but the reality is, Felix was counting on us. We were his people. Knew his temperament, his needs, his quirks. We loved him fiercely since he became a part of our lives. I worry that finding a new home that can offer him the same patience, understanding, and deep love we shared will be incredibly difficult.
My heart is broken beyond words. It’s incomprehensible how someone can commit to caring for a living being, especially one like Felix, and then easily discard them when they become inconvenient. Felix deserved better. He deserved a lifetime of love and security. And right now, he’s alone, waiting.