Dogs

I find that the older I get, the more I fall in love with dogs. And it doesn't seem to matter what size or shape they are, I just seem to gravitate toward them, and usually they enjoy my company. In fact, most seem to be pleased when I arrive to their homes, which blesses me immensely.

I arrived today to tutor Jay, and their white medium sized dog came running down the stairs and whined until I pet her. It was sweet. Then tonight I went over to a friend's house and got to play with their dog. I tell ya, dogs are always happy. Well, okay, the dogs I come across are happy. Not always obedient, but they are happy. And, they are always happy to see me. Which is just wonderful in my book.

My brother and sister-in-law just adopted a Mini-Aussie, and are having the joyous puppy stages to walk through with that one. My brother commented on a separate blog that it's good he's cute or he'd be chained to the mailbox with a "good to free home" sign attached to him. Ah yes, it's good that they are cute, it keeps their owners motivated to go through all that puppy stuff with them.

My parents have Roxie and Rudy who are AWESOME dogs. Gosh, every time I go there, I awake to two dogs standing or sitting outside my door waiting for me to get up. That is a highlight for me, and makes me feel good. Roxie and Rudy are members of the family, just as Indy, Rocco, Sydney, Teddy, and Elia are in their homes.

So tonight I sat on a porch with a friend who is contemplating giving me her dog. I can't imagine any of the dogs mentioned above leaving my life, so my heart leaps for my friend and her family who are torn in so many emotions on this decision. There are little little people in the family, and so this decision isn't an easy one. I can't imagine giving up their dog, as he's a really good dog. Yeah, he sheds a lot and does other typical dog stuff that dogs do, but even she is openly struggling with it.

To me, he isn't just a dog, he's a member of their family. So, if he stays, that's cool. I discovered the other night how many dogs need to be rescued from other HORRIBLE situations, and I would be a GREAT adoptive parent of one of those dogs. There was even one posted online that I would've taken in a heartbeat if it wasn't for the fact I am not in a place just yet that will allow pets. 3 weeks from tonight I'll be there...which is crazy in itself.

So, whenever I hear the phrase, "Just a dog," I don't buy that. Dogs are family members, and can bring joy and love into a person's life in a way that a person cannot. I know just from last November through April, Roxie and Rudy gave me the best support available. And, the greatest part was, I didn't say a word, they just knew.

So whether it's my friend's dog or another dog, I am looking forward to having my own dog for the first time in my adult life.

Hum...

Life.
Is.
Good.