I talked to a friend recently who is a dog lover like me, and sadly, she lost her big dog to a freak accident.
My friend, Anita — who gave me permission to use her name — is probably in her young 80s, and that’s a guess. She is spry, full of life and just the sweetest person.
She didn’t know if she wanted another dog or not at her age, but she has always had a dog and it was lonely without one. Plus, she lives alone, and having a bigger dog was good protection for her.
Her daughter convinced her to check out a couple of animal shelters in the area, but she really didn’t find the dog she was looking for. Pet parents are familiar with that exact moment that comes as you look into an animal’s eyes and just know this is the one.
A day or so later, one of the shelters she had visited called. They gave her the name of someone who had to give up their big dog because of health reasons and moving. He was just too big and wasn’t happy with city life. This dog owner said that, if Anita was willing, she would bring the dog to her house to meet and greet.
Anita had a good feeling about this. She called the woman and said, “Yes, please bring the dog up. I am very interested.” On arriving at Anita’s home, the woman brought the dog in — a big, mastiff-type dog, but a big baby. It was love at first sight for both Anita and the dog.
Anita decided to call the dog Chance, because it was her last chance to get a dog and his second-chance home.
Now he has a big farm to run on, a bed to share with his new “hooman,” plenty of food and water, playmates that come to visit and the best home a dog could ever want. This is what makes my heart happy. I just love to hear happy ending stories.
There are so many animals out there looking for their forever home. If you are considering making a commitment to adopt a pet, make sure you have an established vet to care for that pet.
If you are thinking of a certain breed, be sure to read up on the breed you are planning to adopt. It is best to know their temperaments and what to expect.
Rescue, rescue, rescue — there are so many unwanted pets out there filling up the shelters. Check them out when you decide to get a pet before you spend hundreds or thousands of dollars.
My pets have all been rescues, with the exception of only two that have not been adopted from the Central Aroostook Humane Society. There is nothing so peaceful as having a pet that is part of your family. They are great entertainment — at least, my Ollie is — and a great comfort when you’re feeling down, and overall they make life a little easier.
Our pets have lived as long as 19 years, but we also lost one at 10 years of age. We treasure them as long as we can.
Please stop by the Central Aroostook Humane society or check out our Facebook page. Betsy and staff can help you find the perfect pet for you.
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Gail Wieder is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society Board of Directors.
