Mazzy

Voyage to the Rainbow Bridge

Once

Mazzy, was among the early Russian rescues we picked up from Dulles Airport in Virginia. He might have been the second, but he certainly was a stand-out. At that point he was named Almaz – which is the Russian word for an uncut diamond, a rough diamond. He was recognizably Borzoi, but not a well-bred one. (My thanks to all who kept the breed alive, however imperfectly, during all the trials war and peace could throw at it.)

Bob and I were determined not to fail fostering again, so Mazzy was adopted by an experienced dog couple and cheerfully hopped into their car to head for new adventures. Well, as things go sometimes, Mazzy came back home to us.

Mazzy is a housedog. His temperament and mannerisms are wildly enthusiastic with people and other dogs. His impulse control was low to zero. We had to hold on firmly so that he didn’t overwhelm whoever he wanted to greet. He was heedless in any new situation. After 2-3 minutes of a new surrounding he calmed down, but was ever alert for a change which would release him to rushing forward.

Both Mazzy and Zeke (Zephyr) had their first experiences with small children two weeks ago. Their responses were perfect; that slow turning of the head which shows understanding of the special status of the very young. Zeke, being Zeke, simply stayed up on the lounge and away from the children. Mazzy stayed curled on his round bed with his face averted for a long time. I have seen this response many times, shown by dogs, cats, and horses. They give it to their own species and extends to the young of other species presented to them.

The three-year-old boy was quite interested in the dogs, and especially in Mazzy, although he did not offer to touch him. After a while Mazzy rose to his feet and moved to greet the little boy, who reached a hand toward the dog. Then they moved to touching and patting.

Mazzy was perfectly calm when the little boy impulsively hugged him, not roughly but full-bodied. (Yes. Child, dog, parents, and I were all right there. Mazzy was leaning on me and attending the little boy. Yes, Mom and Dad responded immediately with calm reminders about being gentle.)

The little boy and I made a Mazzy Sandwich seasoned with love.

Future

Mazzy’s style had changed during March and April 2026. I sent thoughts to Borzoi Bob about meeting him at the Bridge, or maybe even calling him.

Saturday, May 2, 2026 I took him to the launch point for his journey to the Rainbow Bridge.

On Sunday the third of May I saw a brief glow of extra light and felt joy. Mazzy is in high spirits about this new place where he is flying in the light. Sally MacDowell

He Likes It! *

He Loves It!

He Wants Some More of It!!!

*Tip of the hat to Tim McGraw