Who Saved Who?

This little baby saved my life. 

When I first this Rat Terrier, I was in a phase in my life where all my friends were either married or in a serious relationship.  Goodness, many of them already had one child. I was working 50 hours a week which caused me to gain weight.  I was unhappy and considering to quit my job and stay with the parents til I found a new one. 

Until one special day on June 27th 2010. 

I was out shopping with my dad doing errands.  I have always been a daddy’s girl.  (Which is why I think I am single because I have always tried to find a man like my father, but that is a another topic in itself.)

We went to Petsmart because like father like daughter he owns a fish tank and so do I. We needed filters, so we can replace the old dirty olds and the pumps can do their thing and clean the water.  It just happened to be an adoption day at Petsmart. 

For those that have never walked into a Petsmart in the summer on a Sunday or Saturday this is quite common, but I like to set the stage and make this special day even more meaningful.

 I have always wanted a dog, but I knew having a dog came great responsibility.  I figured, I am 26 now I can take care of a dog. 

Growing up, I saw a movies and tv shows where Lassie always saved the day. Or Free Willy and Flipper gave companionship to a human.  Come on, everything you see is on tv is right so of course my life would be complete if only I had a pet. 

I walked over to the center of the store and looked around and suddenly made eye contact with the cutest little dog you will ever.  She was giving me a look that only a dog in need does. She was calling me to take her home with me.  I said, “That’s the one.”  Look at her! My dad must have had the same feeling because he said lets talk to your mother. 

I knew working 50 hour week, I would need my parent’s full commitment as well because I could not care of a dog on my own.  

We convinced my mom to come to Petsmart to see the pretty little doggie.  She walked into the store very hesitant and walked straight into that cage.  My mother’s eyes truly did start to tear up.  I had not even pointed out which dog I wanted to adopt. 

Needless to say, 300 dollars later I had a dog in the car, cage in the other and a bag full of food, treats, collar and leash.  I was ready to go.  

I would not recommend a dog for everyone that is feeling lonely or need some sort of meaning in my life.  I mean my friends are now all married and now on baby number two. I cannot remember the last time I have slept in because she wakes me up every morning to take her out.  In the initial cost of 300 seems like a piece of cake considering how much vets fees and dog food costs.  

However, I love the feeling knowing when I come home my little baby runs down the stairs and wags her little tail waiting to see me.  I love the feeling that when she is scared or nervous she runs to me for protection. I love seeing her front paws up in the air wanting me carry her and put her on my lap. I love the feeling when she falls asleep on me while laying on the couch. 

Yes, I saved her and adopted her, but let’s be honest she saved me and has taught me what unconditional love could look like.