Wednesday, March 22, 2023 - One local dog found her forever home five years ago in Vian, with Ms. Shirley Hutchinson, "aka," her favorite human.
Weighing in at only seven pounds, this six year old half Shitzu, half Yorkie named Cota has made an enormous impact on not only her owner's life but many others as well.
Cota was rescued by Hutchinson’s son, who is a police officer in Quinton, Okla after he witnessed her being thrown out of a car window in the pouring rain.
Hutchinson became emotional while telling Cota's story and explained, "My son knew he had to do something to help her, so he took her in."
Shortly after Cota was rescued, Hutchinson's son received a new work K-9. He quickly realized that the two dogs were incompatible. "That's when he asked me if I wanted Cota, " Hutchinson added.
Hutchinson, who is disabled, immediately replied yes, and the two became best friends.
Since moving to her new and loving home, Cota has been a very busy dog. One big accomplishment she has made is completing school to become a service dog.
"She always knows exactly what I need when I need it. She will lick my hand or lay her head on my shoulder, and my depression just fades away." Hutchinson said.
Cota tends to transform the lives of everyone she meets with her cuddles, love, and affection. Prior to Covid, Hutchinson and Cota visited the Vian Nursing Home regularly so residents could enjoy her company too.
Hutchinson said, "I hope to be able to get back to that soon. I know she misses seeing her people, and they miss her too. I just want to share her love with everyone and would love to take her to visit other nursing homes in the county as well."
A couple of Cota’s hobbies are walking in county Christmas parades each year and competing in various competitions. Recently, she won a contest, beating almost 10,000 others, to be featured in the 2023 Exemplary Pets calendar for the month of March.
"She loves being in the spotlight. I actually just entered her in a beauty contest. I got her a bikini, a sunhat, and sun glasses and submitted her professional photo, but the winner won’t be announced until May 15." Hutchinson added.
Hutchinson loves to share Cota’s contagious spirit with others and wants residents to know they are here for them.
If you would like to stop by and visit Cota or have her visit your organization, feel free to contact Hutchinson through her Facebook to schedule a time.
Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer
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