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The paintings of Italian-born artist Agostino Brunias, who made a profession of depicting the island in subdued, stylized settings that covered up the harsh realities of colonial control, were my first visual introduction to Dominica. However, as soon as I step onto its winding roads, which begin to twist shortly after I arrive, it becomes evident that this region, which is situated in the center of the Lesser Antilles’ curve, is anything but tame. The two-toned leaves of its bois canot trees, which change color from green to white when they sway in the wind, shimmer and bristle with the power of the volcano. It lulls with the erratic sound of its numerous waterfalls, scatters rainbows haphazardly across its breathtaking horizons, and enchants from the depths with its vibrant coral reefs. And it roars come storm season.
The indigenous Kalinago people of Dominica survived invasion by the French and British, who imposed slavery on the Africans who now make up four-fifths of the island’s population and left a linguistic legacy of English and French-based Creole, by mastering the lush tropical rainforest that covers more than 60% of the island. If you visit Trinidad for roti and Jamaica for jerk, you should travel to Dominica for green things like bush rum and flower teas. There are a ton of medicinal herbs in the forest.
The Jungle Bay Dominica resort, located smack dab in the center of the Soufrière jungles, leans into nature instead, maybe realizing the futility of fighting against the earth’s generosity. When I finally get there, the kitchen is closed. Joanne Hilaire, the operations manager, tells me that they never let guests go hungry, though, so I can feel the warmth of Dominica’s welcome. The cook is preparing an excellently stewed dish of beans with taro, rice, and plantain for our late dinner, off the menu, while I have a refreshing ginger-lime cocktail that is a local favorite. When I wake up the following morning, I find that my villa’s doors open onto a private veranda that faces southwest toward Soufrière Bay, where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge. I let the light wake me for the remainder of my stay by leaving my blinds open.
The Heart-Stopping Account Of A Heroic Rescue Dog’s Confrontation With A Sea Of Venomous Snakes
In a profoundly moving act of kindness and loyalty, it was Max, the faithful dog, who stood before John and the dogs who advanced, protecting his owner from danger.
The story takes a turn with an ending that will certainly touch your heart and bring tears of joy to your eyes.
As John walked through the forest, completely aware that two venomous snakes were ready to attack, his loyal dog sensed the imminent danger and sprang into action.
Jon was overwhelmed with gratitude for Max’s remarkable bravery and unwavering loyalty.
Ultimately, the story of the fearless dog who courageously put himself in harm’s way to protect his owner from venomous snakes is a poignant reminder of the special bond between humans and their furry friends.
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Girl Rescues Dying Dog And Then He Let’s Her Know It’s Time To Say ‘Goodbye’
We’ve all heard or seen stories about dogs on their way to the Rainbow Bridge. Each time they touch our hearts, it is in a different way. This is the story of Sophiane and Hippo.
Even though this homeless dog was too sick to save, Sophiane Nacer still wanted to give him the best ‘end of days’ she could. She resolved that Hippo, an old stray with tumors, would only sense love when he left this world.
“Even if it was just for a day,” Sophiane, the 19-year-old founder of Cayleb’s Kindred Senior Dog Rescue, told TODAY, Hippo would have the happiest last day of his life.
After a five-day wait, Sophiane adopted Hippo and took him home from the shelter. The skin on the unfortunate dog was itchy to touch. Sophiane was unsure whether Hippo could feel anything because he was in so much pain.
All her doubts evaporated as she saw his tail wag. The ailing dog was still optimistic. He FOUGHT to feel love and happiness before he left this world.
So Sophiane took Hippo to Starbucks and bought him a Puppuccino, a hidden menu item that dogs like that is basically a cup filled with delicious whipped cream.
The next day, Hippo was still upbeat, so Sophiane took him to a dog park for some playtime. He loved every minute of it! But then he remembered Sophiane.
The old dog, who was suffering yet hopeful, had a message for his new best friend… He was ready to depart. He was ecstatic to be able to spend time with Sophiane, but he was tired and in pain, and it was time to say goodbye.
Sophiane had a vet euthanasia specialist visit her home after the dog park. The vet specialist had prepared a stuffed roasted chicken for him. He was able to have his final meal with Sophiane as peacefully as possible before falling into a painless permanent sleep.
While this is a heartbreaking story in many ways, it is also quite inspiring. A dying dog who would otherwise have known only suffering was able to spend the rest of his little life feeling loved and wanted.
May all dogs leave this world feeling as loved as this one! Rest in peace, Hippo. You were a fantastic young man!
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