We all have that story. The one who sold us.

 

As a new 8-year-old in town, a family living close by took in a stray dog with puppies. One of them, Toffie, became my shadow. This black little mutt, who had a silver beard in her senior years, saw me all the way into college. She knew me, my family and friends, the loves of my childhood life - and the secrets I wouldn't trust anyone else with. Every child needs a Toffie. Her sweetness cemented my love for dogs. She remains a memory I carry with me.

 

Over the years I was able to continue bringing dogs home - who built on her memories. They explored with me, had fun with me, supported and comforted me - and saw me through good times and sad times. They still stand by my side - and I am a stronger woman for it.

 

Our dogs teach us so much and ask for so little in return. They are loyal to the point of heart break. When we adopted out little Nala, (through YTNR), a few years ago, she looked back through the window of the car, and cried as her new mommy and grandma drove her into her future. I cried when they told me - and hoped she understood, after she was all settled in and spoiled rotten.

 

Little Eric, a lost little soul from a shelter, turned out to be the most compassionate therapist assistant, while recuperating from his own severely broken leg. He selflessly and unconditionally loved my clients who struggled emotionally. His lasting impact on so many, remains awe inspiring.

Therapeutic Eric

 

Aubrey, who knew nothing but being hurt, learned to accept love, to give love, and to cuddle, as he trustingly overcome the demons haunting him from his past. Little Pieter followed in his footsteps. Crippled by neglect and abuse, and struggling with medical and emotional concerns, he rose from the ashes like a phoenix. He inspired all around with his resilience. He blossomed emotionally, as he learned to look you in the eye, and walk independently into loving arms.

 

Jack, the caring little bundle of joy, maneuvered his way into nursing every animal in our home back to heath, while also being the life of every party we threw, and the warm spot in your lap at the end of the day. He played well with others, and never gave up. His endurance stood the test of time - and he fought a battle of wills to provide all the comfort he deemed necessary.

Nurse Jack(ie)

 

Eloise and Nico, bonded as can be, supported each other through sickness and health, and during six months of in-home confinement after their adoption. They provided each other with comfort, shared well, and explored together after entering a healthy phase. Years later Nico struggled with grief after Eloise's death, but he was able to continue adjusting and loving, proving that an old dog can learn new tricks. He died in peace, after a brave fight with tracheal collapse. Together they taught us the value of companionship and love when faced by adversity - yet the importance of independence when growing into your own and facing life after the loss of a loved one.

 

Caroline persevered until teaching Rowdy how to enjoy company and how to play. He nervously accepted the guidance, never having had that from another dog (or initially from a human) before, since he spent his first 18 months in isolation. In turn she became more self-assured and grew to love to share (some). They helped heal each other's' fears.

 

Recently little Andy walked wobbly into our home and our hearts, struggling with longstanding infections and overall poor health. As our vets work to address his issues, he continues to live in the moment and to enjoy what he has. Sweet as pie, he walks proud to be loved, tries hard to teach us bed time and food time routines, while he struggles desperately to potty - something other doggies take for granted. No matter what, he keeps bouncing back, and moving forward, in the process teaching us humans how to handle life's challenges mindfully. Suzanne followed shortly behind him. Supposed to be in Pawspice, she had too much spunk in her to give up. She's stealing hearts as she's getting ready for her own family and home, and led the way for a new little girl, Ellie, to join the YTNR family. Ellie is just a little munchkin, who still has to learn how to play well. But at eight months old, she has time ... As Nelson Mandela said, "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall".

 

Over the years there were others, like blind little TJ, who loved to be held, as much as he loved to hike. Tuffy, who's heroism taught us how full a life can be in six remaining months, and how much love can be passed through soulful eyes. Julia, who remained positive in Pawspice, and spread love and shared happiness until her last little breath. And so many more little loved ones, that I can write volumes ...

 

As doggies continue to enter our home, the stories, love and learnings grow, and the wonders never cease. We are reminded of faith (in the good of most of our fellow humans, and all of the animals we come in contact with), hope, that we may be the person our dogs believe we are, and in love, that overcomes all.

 

Doggies in our homes and our hearts

 

May our dogs always inspire us to love unconditionally and passionately, be selfless, patient, loyal and resilient! May we be THAT person in their lives, and in the lives of others around us.

Hannelie Vermeulen