A running joke is that I’m NOT a dog person.
Exactly a year ago, though, that changed.
Let me start from the beginning. When I was a kid, around six years old, my sister, my brother, and I found a kitten hiding behind the washing machine in our garage. We begged our parents to let us keep it. My dad asked, “Wouldn’t you rather have a dog?” We declined and adopted this sweet little cat, whose whiskers were later pecked off by our pet parakeet. At age sixteen, our cat died, and we did not get another one during the rest of my time in high school. When I returned home for winter break during my collegiate freshman year, my family had two new cats – and I discovered I was allergic to them.
As my life unfolded, I knew I could not have cats (achoo!), although I missed petting their soft fur. While my kids were home, we were too busy and uninterested in getting a dog. A part of me was pleased since dogs scared me. I didn’t like them jumping up on me, and I thought they smelled bad and would bite me.
After my divorce, I began hiking a lot with friends who all have dogs. My fear began to dissipate, and my interest in having a dog grew. I became close to my Astrid and Dennis’ dog Callie and Joel’s dog Viza, along with many other sweet pups. I realized that dogs can be trained not to jump on people, proper hygiene reduces the smell, and dogs don’t bite unless provoked (for the most part!). I also realized by watching Nanine, who has a big fabulous pooch and travels even more than I do, that with a circle of friends and many dogsitting possibilities, I could continue to live my lifestyle while having a dog.
So, a little over a year ago, I decided it was time. I knew I wanted to rescue a dog who: weighed about 25-30 pounds, was good with children and other dogs, and enjoyed hiking and traveling. With Kait, I went to Woods Humane Society to “take a look.” After explaining what qualities interested me in a pet, the receptionist recommended one specific dog. We went into the meeting room, sat on the floor, and the handler Matt brought in this sweet three-year old pup. She was scared and timid! And, oh so sweet! My heart was won when Matt picked her up to carry her out, and she nestled right into his neck. I knew then that what this doggie needed was love – exactly what I had to give.
That doggie, of course, is my energetic, affectionate, playful, and totally sweet Sheila!
