Kidie (pronounced “Ky‑dee”) Halbert Thornton was born on April 8, 1959, in Sonora, Texas. A proud Texas Tech Red Raider, she graduated in 1981 and carried that spirit with her throughout her life. As a girl, Kidie spent her summers in Ruidoso at her family’s cabin, a cherished place dating back to the 1940s. In 2019, she made Ruidoso her permanent home.
Kidie loved the beach, adored her two sons, and had a lifelong devotion to animals. Growing up on her family’s ranch in Sutton County, she developed a deep respect for the creatures in her care. Over the years she shared her life with many beloved pets, but in 2020 she adopted a rescue dog named Bell, an adoption that changed everything. Bell’s resilience and unconditional love inspired Kidie to join the Board of Directors of the Humane Society of Lincoln County in 2023, where she poured her heart into helping the animals who needed it most.
On July 29, 2025, we tragically lost our wonderful Kidie. Her energy, compassion, and love for life touched countless people and animals. To honor her legacy, we created Kidie’s Corner, a tribute to her unwavering dedication to the underdogs…older pets, shy pets, and those who simply need a little extra love.
Each month, we will highlight one of “Kidie’s Heroes” – an animal still waiting for their forever home.
Kidie's Hero of the Month
Our first two Kidie’s Heroes – Boba and Rocko have been adopted. We are now featuring Wabi-Sabi.
Meet a little heart with big potential. This 4‑year‑old Shar‑Pei Dachshund mix is a shy soul who has been feeling overwhelmed in the shelter. She’s not quite sure what to make of all the noise and new faces, but with patience and kindness she’s beginning to peek out from her shell.
Once she feels safe, her true personality starts to shine. She leans in for quiet affection, watches you with soft curious eyes, and shows a gentle sweetness that makes you fall in love without even trying. She’s the kind of dog who blossoms slowly, building trust one calm moment at a time.
There’s a touch of wabi‑sabi in her spirit, the Japanese idea that beauty lives in imperfection, simplicity, and the soft marks left by life’s journey. She isn’t flashy or bold. She’s tender, thoughtful, and wonderfully real. Her story, her hesitations, and her slow blooming are part of what make her so special.
She’s looking for someone who understands that the best things grow with love. If you enjoy cozy companionship, soft snuggles, and the joy of helping a timid pup feel brave, she will be your little treasure.
She’s ready for a home where she can exhale, settle in, and finally feel safe. Maybe that home is yours.
If adoption isn’t possible, we invite you to support Kidie’s Legacy Fund, which provides care for the least adoptable animals and those with special needs. Your contribution directly honors Kidie’s passion for giving every animal a chance.
In Kidie’s memory, please donate today and help us continue the work she loved.
