The Rusty Fund
"There is nothing truer in life than the love of a good dog." - Mira Grant
Dog lovers like us know, having a dog brings immense joy and companionship, filling our lives with unconditional love and countless adventures. The Dodman family shared 15+ years with Rusty, but sadly said goodbye in July of 2024, just a few months shy of Rusty's 16th birthday. When the time comes to say goodbye to our beloved pets, their loyal companionship and joyful spirit leave an irreplaceable void in our hearts. To honor the life of Rusty - and all the pets we have loved and lost - we introduce The Rusty Fund. ​
The Rusty Fund celebrates and honors the pets who have made such an immense impact on our lives. Here we can share their stories and memories, ensuring the legacy of our beloved pets' lives on. Donations to The Rusty Fund supports the mission of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies to help keep dogs in their forever homes.
​Rusty's story
Dr. Dodman and his wife Linda adopted Rusty in 2009 when Rusty was 8 months old. As Dr. Dodman recalls in Pets on the Couch, "One summer afternoon, my wife, Linda, who is also a veterinarian, called me from the Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. Because our kids were grown and gone, Linda and I had been in search of a cat or two to rescue. The old saying that owners are picked by their dogs, rather than the other way around, applied in this instance. Linda spotted a dog being walked across the parking lot. Rusty spotted her at the same time. She knew immediately that he would be ours."
Once home together, the Dodman's learned quickly that Rusty had some behavioral issues, including house-soiling and separation anxiety. "At least he had wound up at the perfect home. It was like a chocoholic getting adopted by Willy Wonka."
During their years together, the Dodman's gave Rusty all the sweetness he deserved: cozy beds and couches to cuddle up on, homemade bacon and cheese omelets, a front seat during road trips, and the chance to befriend every person or dog he met on their countless walks on the beach.
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​Dr. Dodman shared that "Rusty was a once-in-a-lifetime dog. We loved him so very much and were loved by him in return. He knew we would always protect him so he never worried. There were no rules for him in our home. Human food – sure. Couch – no problem. And he always slept on our bed with his feline friend, Griswold, and/or his “brother” dog Jasper. We were one big happy family. His demise at almost 16 years of age due to a slow-moving illness has left us bereft, heartbroken, and aching for his presence once more. Of course, he is gone and we will have to get used to that fact, but it is awfully hard. He definitely was a much-loved dog and is sorely missed."
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​"I love this dog. We understand each other perfectly.
No rules, just mutual trust and respect."
- Dr. Nicholas Dodman describing his best friend, Rusty.
When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
When grieving the loss of a person, we can find comfort in traditions like memorial tributes and gathering with loved ones. Losing a pet doesn't hurt less because it is an animal; grief hurts regardless of species.
Here at The Rusty Fund, we are creating a space where the memory of our beloved pets can be celebrated. Honor their unwavering love and companionship by sharing a memory or your pet's story below.
Donations given in memory of your pet are much appreciated and will directly support the work here at CCBS.
In loving memory
Willow
I adopted/rescued Willow when she was 2 and we had 12 wonderful years. She was the best of all my dogs and I have had more than a few over my 72 years. Willow was a greyhound pitbull mix, heavy on the former. She always somehow knew intuitively when I needed cheering up and was simply the best companion one could have. She was such a gentle and happy spirit. And every evening she would squeeze into whatever chair I was sitting in and snuggle up behind me until we went to bed. She passed suddenly late in February and I still feel the loss intensely; I feel your pain Dr. Dodman. And thank you for the incredible work you have done on behalf of our pets.
Cooper
Cooper, the love we shared started with saving each other. You from an abusive family that broke your leg and left you tied to a tree in a hurricane. Me from loneliness and depression. You came into my heart and trusted me the moment we met. I became your person and you mine. We learned together. Grew together. Moved together. Divorced together. Had babies together. Got married together. Changed cities together. Cried together. And now we must go on alone. My heart is ripped open. But I thank you for the greatest love one could ever know. One that no matter who or how or why you show up, you loved me and me you. You taught me trust, loyalty, patience and communication.
I know how I will do the next years without you by my side. The adventure was always sweeter with you in it. Thank you for every moment you allowed me to love you.
