Doctors said that she only had a couple of weeks to live, so this pilot flew her to her adoptive family 400 miles away so that her final days would be filled with love.
Ashlyn was an elderly dog in a North Carolina shelter, and she wasn’t doing well. She’d lost a lot of weight and had sarcomas, which were malignant tumors beneath her skin. But it wasn’t too late for her to strike gold.
When the New England Humane Society (NEHS) identified a suitable home for Ashlyn to spend the last few weeks of her life, all she needed was a means to get there. So the founder of Flying Fur Animal Rescue (FFAR), Paul Steklenski, decided to fly her up on his plane.
Steklenski became sad as he piloted the plane with Ashlyn in the seat next him, thinking about how this may be her final flight anywhere.
Even though Steklenski is used to transporting needy puppies to rescues so they may find loving homes — he normally transports between 15 to 30 dogs each month — the elderly dogs particularly tug at his heartstrings. “Those are the ones where you really focus on what they’re going through,” Steklenski explained to The Dodo.
Ashlyn was nervous at the bit of the two-hour travel. “She seemed a touch distant at first,” Steklenski remarked. “Then she’d kind of open up a bit and get closer.”
He surely made her feel better by feeding her dog treats. “She then gave me one paw, then the other,” he explained.
“She then rested her head on my lap,” Steklenski explained. “That means a lot to me. That is all that is important. That is the prize in and of itself.”
Steklenski decided to take up flying as a hobby in 2013, at the same time he adopted a dog. These items were unconnected at the time, but they were irrevocably intertwined soon after.
“We went to pet stores, then to shelters, and began to discover the difference,” Steklenski told The Dodo last year. When he discovered how many needy animals are in shelters, he decided to put his new hobby to good use.
Ashlyn would not be where she is now if it weren’t for him. While everyone assumed they were transporting her to the hospital, her recovery has led rescuers to believe she may have more time than they imagined.
“Her condition crushed me when I brought her up from the airport,” Tracy Lander, who has three dogs of her own and has been fostering dogs for the NEHS for two years, told The Dodo. “She had lost 39 pounds and her optimum weight is between 65 and 70 pounds. She came to me wearing a sweater, and when I removed it, I could see every rib.”
Lander began feeding Ashlyn three times a day to help her gain weight. She also gave her vitamins to assist her deal with her numerous health issues, which ranged from skin problems (induced by chemical burns) to cancers.
Ashlyn gradually began to change. “She’s getting out more,” Lander observed. “She’s a fantastic eater… and she adores me.”
Ashlyn has even begun to cuddling with Angel, another of Lander’s dogs. Xander, Lander’s boxer mix, has also expressed an interest in connecting with Ashlyn. “He’ll simply walk up to Ashlyn and start licking her,” Lander said. “He believes that he can heal everyone with his mouth.”
Ashlyn moved in with the Landers in January, and no one knew how long she’d be there. Now that it’s April, they don’t think of her as the fospice dog, but rather as someone who reminds them to live in the now and cherish every day — which is always a wonderful lesson.
“She understands she is adored,” Lander added. “No matter what happens, she knows she is loved.”
No one expected Ashlyn to make such significant leaps the day she boarded Steklenski’s plane. She went from being a tired shelter dog to becoming a member of a loving family, which is precisely why Steklenski does what he does.
“I never envisioned discovering something so wonderful, so rewarding that it would eclipse practically everything else in my life,” Steklenski remarked.
14 Beloved Celebrity’s Fashion Items That You Can Find on Amazon
Let’s face it: how many times have you bought something just because someone you adore wore it? Thankfully, not everything celebrities own is super expensive and some items are affordable for most of us to purchase. Whether formal or casual, these 14 products will make you fall in love.
1. Lele Sadoughi’s classic headband was proudly worn by Drew Barrymore, Hilary Duff, and Naomi Campbell. It is made from canvas and features a lovely knot at the top. It comes in black and is knitted.
Promising review:
- I noticed a friend wearing one of these cute headbands. We got into a discussion how I can never wear headband because the pressure they put behind my ears and cause headaches. I owe it to her to introducing me to this brand of headband. It is so comfortable and so cute on. I recommend if you have had issues like me in the past. @Mary Payton Noah
2. Superga trainers that are longtime favorites Catherine, Princess of Wales, Jessica Alba, and Jennifer Aniston. They are made from canvas and come in a variety of colors. They last in time and can be washed in the machine.
Promising review:
- I am a woman, U.S. size 8 in shoes and I purchased my trainers in a unisex 7 (for extra space since I have a wide foot). It fits perfectly. The only downside is that the back of my ankles rub against the back of my trainers, which made the back of my ankles a bit rough on the skin. Other than that, they are absolutely comfortable.
Although, one last thing is to purchase a pair of shoelaces that are long enough for the trainers because my shoelaces didn’t fully lace up. Overall, an excellent pair of shoes that were also worn by both Princess Katherine of Wales and her younger sister Pippa. @Kate
3. Khloé Kardashian’s favorite water bottle with inspirational quotes and time markers. It also features a straw and removable strap. It reminds you to stay hydrated every single day. It is made from food-grade, eco-friendly, reusable Tritan plastic.
Promising review:
- This jug is pretty awesome, definitely a lot bigger in person than I would’ve expected, but I love it and use it every day! I will say that cleaning it is kind of a pain since the strap on it isn’t easily removable. You either have to pry it off or clean the bottle with it on.
I got this as a Christmas present to myself and don’t even use it everyday due to the fact that if I don’t make sure the seal is in right, it leaks all over the place and the clasp that hold the bottle closed is broken as of this morning. I expected a just a little more out of the durability as it just broke on its own, wasn’t dropped or anything. @Ashton
4. Stance socks we’ve seen people like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Hailey Baldwin wearing. Their seamless toe closure gives your feet less friction and more protection. They are suitable for both women and men in different styles and color combinations.
Promising review:
- Socks are well-made and fit well. I think it’s cool that both feet are slightly different designs, I actually get compliments when I wear these. I would have never thought I would get compliments on socks, oh well, who says socks have to be boring? My only problem is I can’t find other Stance socks with similar designs. Very good price, too. @Shale
5. Levi’s 501-type jeans celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Victoria Beckham wear. They are soft, lightweight, and accentuate your legs. They are light blue and are ideal for daily use. It’s best to wash them in cold water and without any bleach.
Promising review:
- I wanted to try high-waisted wide leg jeans for a long while, but couldn’t find a style I really liked… until now. I normally only wear stretchy slim jeans, but lost some weight and wanted to get a better fit. These are great, perfect sizing, perfect length, and not too much stretch. Finally, pants that don’t fall down to my hips. Great color and very comfortable. @Carol
6. Telfar shopping bag that is Oprah Winfrey’s personal pick. It comes in color purple and features a double strap. Made of faux leather, it has a main compartment with magnetic snap closure and an internal zipper pocket.
Promising review:
- I’ve wanted a Teflar bag for years and I must say I am not disappointed. The small bags are cute for date night or running errands. The medium can totally be a carry on for travel, a bag for a business lady, a bag for a mommy that has to take kids to the stores with her for or a cute date night! I’m a proud owner of 8 Teflar bags now. @Aisha Bennett
7. Apsvo chunky gold or silver earrings proudly worn by Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber. They are ideal for sensitive ears and are hypoallergenic. They are made of gold-plated copper and do not flake off and lose color.
Promising review:
- I am so pleased with this purchase. These earrings are such a nice size. Not too little, not too big.
A bright, beautiful gold. And they are actually heavy duty, I was surprised they felt as good of quality as they were. Highly recommended! @Angela Frank
8. Yeti portable cooler that is Matt Damon’s favorite. It offers superior cold-holding, with a capacity of up to 12 cans plus ice. Its high-density fabric withstands punctures and UV rays. Its shell is waterproof and holds its own when faced with the hazards of the wild.
Promising review:
- This thing is built like a real tank. The zipper is mega strong and even comes with a tube of chap stick type lubricant for it. Still extremely pricey, even for such a high quality product, but it should last a VERY long time and the cans or ice remain COLD, for well over a WEEK! @Don Killough
9. Thick high-waisted yoga pants similar to those Jennifer Lopez, Selena Gomez, and Jennifer Lawrence donned. They come in a wide variety of colors and designs. They provide tummy control and feature 2 pockets. They are very comfortable and feel natural on the skin.
Promising review:
- I’m always on the lookout for workout leggings that are both comfortable and functional, and The Gym People Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets definitely deliver. The first thing I noticed about these leggings was the quality of the material. They’re thick and well-made, and they feel great against the skin.
These leggings are also very comfortable to wear. The high waistband provides a flattering fit and good tummy control, and the fabric is soft and stretchy. I also love that they have pockets on both sides, which is perfect for storing my phone or keys when I’m working out. @Susan C — California
10. Marc Jacobs’ tote bag Kim Kardashian and SZA have worn for the brand’s campaign. It comes in various colors and features a zip and a long strap to put around your shoulders. This is a small size and can fit most of your necessities.
Promising review:
- Cute bag but nothing special. I bought an insert to help with organization, but it really helped hold its form and sit straight. The main shoulder strap is the only thing on the bag that feels «nice». I’d even consider buying another strap to swap out to change it up in the future.
My calendar does fit, but just barely. Your iPad will fit, but it’s going to cut it very close. Now I’m wondering how the large compares. @Reed
11. Birkenstock sandals our favorite celebrities have worn, including Reese Witherspoon, Margot Robbie, and Gwyneth Paltrow. They are made from oiled leather. They are quite wide but can fit any feet thanks to the adjustable straps.
Promising review:
- As long as you know your correct size, everything will be fine. Both my son and I wear a size 39. His are a men’s 39 and mine are a women’s 39. I wear a true 8.5, and I believe my son wears a men’s 8.5 as well. I have worn Birkenstocks since I was a kid in high school, and they most definitely don’t disappoint.
Great if you have foot problems (arch issues, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs). The only shoe I can wear while being on my feet all day long and not be in pain when I get home. I believe the Birks in question are the ones I bought for my son. He LOVES them.
They used to be known as «hippie» shoes, but they have made a huge comeback and are considered quite the style statement for men and women. Considered «cool shoes» if worn by a high schooler. @fivegreatkiddos
12. Biore pore strips that are Rihanna’s makeup artist’s favorite tool to clear skin. They unclog pores from dirt and residue in just 10 minutes. With continual use, you can help reduce the appearance of blackheads and see a visible reduction in the size of your pores.
Promising review:
- After trying out multiple similar products, this one seems to work the best! It is super easy to put on (tip: on wet skin) and every time I used it, I could see white sebum dots once I removed it. The only problem I had was bits of mask remaining glued to my nose after I took it off. However, it only happened every couple of times and is super easy to wash off, so I don’t mind it too much. @Filip
13. Unisex Crocs clogs, celebrities like Justin Bieber, Pharrell, and Bad Bunny often wear. They are very easy to clean using water and soap. The ventilation ports add breathability and help shed water and debris quickly.
Promising review:
- The crocs fit as expected if you order down. I wear 6 1/2 and ordered the 6. Perfect. I also have wide feet, and they aren’t too wide. They are a perfect fit.
There isn’t any rubbing or breaking in period. I decorated them with jewels. I’m 61 years old and I sport these well. Money well spent. Again, the color is beautiful. @cici
14. Kendra Scott Courtney paperclip necklace Reese Witherspoon loves. It is ideal for layering and complements both delicate necklaces and larger statement pieces. To protect the plating, remove your jewelry prior to contact with water.
Promising review:
- I enjoy wearing this necklace alone or as part of a layered look with many necklaces I already own from my Kendra Scott collection. It is great quality and quite dainty and not heavy at all. @Toothdrmom3
Making online purchases can be super easy but also quite challenging. That’s why many people rely on good reviews to decide whether they’ll buy something or not. So, if this is your criteria as well, you may want to check out these amazing products.
Bright Side gets commissions for purchases made through the links in this post. Reviews may have been edited for length and clarity.
Preview photo credit RW/Associated Press/East News, #AngelaCirca83 / Amazon
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