When my elderly neighbor reported a scary dog in her garage, I went to help. I saw a large boney German Shepherd mix accompanied with a tiny black Lab/Pit puppy covered in boils. As hungry as the big dog was, he conceded the bowl of food I offered to his companion. Clearly, he had taken the role of protector, friend, and maybe even dad to the unfortunate-looking pup.
Having only one leash, as I led the big dog to the car, the little puppy grabbed ahold of the same leash, right by the collar, and walked with us.
Clueless
At the shelter, I was told there was no space for the big dog and that he would be put down. Having just lost my dog of 19 years, and never having had a large dog, I decided to foster until he was healthy. As we walked away from the shelter, the big dog briskly walked towards the car with a “Cool, where to next?!” attitude. I distinctly remember thinking… wow… the dude's clueless... has no idea what could have happened.
On our first walk, I learned how he survived. He investigated dry gutter downspouts looking for water and even tried to eat a butterfly as it flew past. Fast Forward to Today The available space went to another animal in need. For the last 12 years, he’s been my scary-sounding doorbell… my entertainment… my companion… my protector… my buddy… my boy… and father to kittens…
Father of Kittens
— -
I started to write an ode and ended up with a haiku!
Old Dog
Only one eye left
Now barks at my reflection
Graying, yet a pup
— - Thanks for reading… it’s everything!
Adopt or Foster. You’ll end up gaining more than a pet.
❤ Karen Carrens