The Protector
 
We have a three year old Mal/Lab mix (Sasha) which we rescued from going to the 
Humane Society shelter when she was a couple of months old.  The family who had 
her were not "dog people" and had no idea how to care for her.  Her life consisted 
of being tied in the yard all day and crated all night.  She had no social skills 
and had never even been introduced to a leash or walked.
 
My daughter and I spent a lot of time with Sasha, playing with her, walking her, 
and training.  She is now a very sociable lovable dog.  She knows the sit, down, 
stay, heal, etc commands and obeys them when she feels like it!
 
We also have a 9 year old cat (Darby) who roams the woods and neighbourhood where 
we live and sometimes he makes enemies of other cats when he is out.  When Darby 
gets into a situation he can't handle, he runs for home.
 
I watched him one day when Sasha was outside.  With another cat close behind chasing 
him, Darby ran to where Sasha was standing and got in and stood under Sasha.  He then 
became fairly brave and started making threatening noises at the other cat.  Sasha 
was also letting the other cat know it better not mess with her "brother".  It was 
quite a funny sight.  Sasha and Darby are best of buds and look after each other very 
well.
 
When Sasha first came to us, I found it very difficult and frustrating to socialize 
and train her.  I had no exerience with a malamute and did not know how stubborn and intelligent they are.  We hung in though and I can now say it was worth every minute 
of the energy spent.  Sasha is my best buddy and we love her very much.