I’ve been so focused on clean hands and virus vectors this week, I thought I would take a moment to (re)introduce Oliver. Ollie is a rescue; I ran his DNA this year when the groomer insisted he was a very fancy breed. His test results confirmed that he is 100% Oliver, (along with 50% maltese, 50% poodle). He is great! He is stuck to us like velcro if we are not feeling well, and always ready when anyone, human, canine, or feline, wants to play. He is great at getting wound up in yarn when I am crocheting, and best at communicating with his eyes to let us know exactly what he wants or needs. So, basically, Oliver is authentically Oliver; a great friend, a fabulous stress reducer, and quite the character. This week, my grandson decided to wear his caps backwards and make a statement. Not to be outdone, Oliver is making a statement of his own. (The hat only stayed on as long as it took to take photo; the sweatshirt has been on since his recent haircut. It is way too cold outside for his 9# self).
Oliver is 10. My friend, “A”, just adopted a 15 year old poodle/shih tzu who quickly and sweetly took his place in their family. Yes, he is a senior dog, but dogs earn that title as young as 5 years old. “A” decided that no matter how long he has left on this planet, whether measured in years or months, that time would be filled with love, and hugs, and cuddles, and treats.
Our family also includes Enzo, a 5 year old rescue whose original family named “Hunter” because that was to be his job. Born with a bit of a wobble, Enzo was not going to hunt for anything but a new home. And he found us. Enzo is 100% Beagle, and 1000% friend. He shows us every day that he appreciates his place in our family.
Dogs are powerful sources of pure love, comfort, and stress reduction. Rescue dogs even more so. They know they are meant to be yours.
Namaste’.