The diagnosis had a huge impact on her husband, Michael, and the rest of their family in the US. This included Skye, their ten-year-old Golden Retriever, who was deeply affected by the news.
A sudden change in behaviour
Skye's behaviour began to change gradually. For instance, whenever Michael leaves the house, Skye stays constantly by Donna's side, as if she has instinctively decided to watch over her. This protective attitude wasn't always there; Donna and Michael noticed it developed naturally after the diagnosis.
On another occasion, Donna began shaking during the night due to her illness, and Skye stepped in immediately. The clever dog came over to the bed, barked insistently, and managed to help her owner recover from the tremors. For Michael, this moment confirmed that Skye had truly become Donna's guardian angel.
Keeping her safe
Skye also watches over Donna during their walks. This brings immense comfort to Michael, who knows she will always bring Donna back home safely.
The story of Skye and Donna is even more touching because, ten years earlier, the couple adopted her through a rescue charity specialising in Golden Retrievers. Before finding her forever home, she had spent her life in a puppy farm before finally getting the chance to experience a loving family home.
Today, Skye has returned the love she received tenfold. For this family, the adoption has saved two lives: that of a rescued dog, and that of Donna, who can now rely every day on her gentle, caring guardian angel.