Monty’s Story and the Spirit of Elizabeth Taylor

At the height of COVID-19, when the world seemed to stand still, Tim Mendelson, former assistant to Elizabeth Taylor and a Co-Trustee of House of Taylor, decided it was time to fulfill a dream he’d put off for years: to adopt a dog. Living a life that often kept him on the go, Tim realized that his routine could work differently, and he felt it was finally the right moment to change a dog’s life. 

Tim knew that when it came to adopting, he wanted to give a second chance to a pup in need, particularly a rescue dog. "I, selfishly, knew they would be the most loving and grateful," he said. His dear friend, Debbie Bloom, who saved countless dogs, had just the right one for him.

A sweet rescue from Mexico had been brutally kicked in the head, leaving his jaw shattered, but thanks to Debbie, he was brought to the U.S. for surgery and a second chance.

Without hesitation, Tim agreed to adopt him. Tim named Monty after Montgomery Clift, in honor of Elizabeth Taylor’s legendary act of kindness when she rushed to Monty’s side after his near-fatal car accident in 1956. She climbed through the wreckage to pull broken teeth out of his mouth, saving his life in the process. 

Now, four years later, Monty is a happy, affectionate dog –– proof of the healing power of love and compassion. Tim’s decision to adopt Monty honors Elizabeth Taylor’s spirit of generosity and kindness, reminding us that sometimes the smallest acts of love can make the biggest difference.

"It was Elizabeth’s rescuing spirit that informed my heart,” says Tim, “and I named him Monty in honor of her.”