India

January 5, 1992 – March 11, 2007

India was born on January 5, 1992, in Rhode Island.  Connie’s daughter, Heather, was attending the University of Rhode Island (URI) when she adopted India from a litter of unwanted puppies.  However, with the rigors of work and study as a marine biologist, Heather learned that India needed more time and attention than she was able to dedicate.  She lovingly took India home to her mom, Connie Bombaci, to raise and keep as a member of the family. 

Connie was a lover of animals from early childhood and had always had dogs as part of the family.  She was in search of a pup to rescue when Heather introduced India, a black Labrador mix, who was only 10 weeks old and 12 pounds at the time. Connie, along with her husband, Jim, eagerly welcomed their new addition and set into motion household changes and adaptations to daily schedules. 

Over the course of the next year, India grew and learned good manners.  She also demonstrated a wonderful and energetic spirit of playfulness and companionship.  It didn’t take a rocket scientist to determine that she needed a playmate, and Connie set out to find a buddy.  Searching the local animal shelters and rescue organizations, she contacted the Connecticut Humane Society and discovered a brother for India.  Because of India’s delightful good nature, no more than two seconds passed before India approved Hogan as the second canine addition. 

India set the tone for the entire Bombaci household.  Her unconditional, or it should be said, pure love and desire to be with anyone and everyone inspired the Bombaci’s to learn, train, and volunteer their time and services to others.  India was the first to pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test and went on to be certified as a Therapy Dog (TDI).  She was unrelenting with her Frisbee and greeted all guests with an enthusiastic invitation to play.  She was considered to be an amazing pup by everyone who met her.  Her intelligence was uncanny and her perception of others’ needs served as an invaluable aid to all.  She loved humans and other animals of all ages and was happiest when she was right alongside her human parents.