I might be spending at least a few months in one place, starting in June. Details on that coming soon (I’m very excited!). But until then…one of the super fun parts that I will tell you now is that I may be able to get a pet (i.e., an alive version of Stanley)! I just found this out yesterday and today I was already at the animal shelter. Even though it’s not possible for me to get one yet, I just wanted to check out the situation and what the process entails. I have never been to an animal shelter before. I was so excited to get there – couldn’t wait to say hello to all the little cuties. I raced to get there and had figured out the maximum time I could stay before I would need to head home for a client meeting.
And then…literally two steps into the first room with the dogs, and I was an emotional wreck. Unable to stop the tears. I had no idea. It was heartbreaking to see all of these beautiful creatures staring at me, painfully, desperately, sweetly, sadly… each attempting, in their own ways, to get out. Trying in the brief seconds they each had, to make me fall in love. Some barked ferociously, some gazed intently in my eyes, some just laid down their heads and glanced sideways. What pressure, to convince within 3 seconds time; and what disappointment to experience on such a regular basis. And I did fall in love with each and every one of them, with each of their sweet and strained faces.
I’m afraid I will never forget the big brown eyes of the 10 year old German Shorthair Pointer, that, after looking into mine for a good 30 seconds, somehow convinced the rest of his aging body to orchestrate a laborious move from the far end of the cage over to where I was standing. And from there, we stared some more. And then I had to walk away. Torture. Heartbreak.
I think of them there now and my heart squiggles and my eyes fill. I wish I could have taken them all home with me. I did almost brought two feline siblings home to Stanley…until I realized that I’m staying in at least two more places that don’t allow pets, plus I don’t have any equipment and am allergic to cats!!! (I know, minor points)
I will only go back when I’m ready to actually make a move. And that minute can’t come soon enough. 😦
THE TRAVELING RABBIT 
Just keep any dog away from Stanley…dogs and teddies don’t always mix well! Pookey knows this from personal experience.
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oh no!! poor Pookey! i will have to make sure I bring Stanely along to the shelter, so we make sure to pick a new buddy that will get along with both of us!!
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I’m with you, visiting a shelter is a heart wrenching experience.
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i’m so glad i’m not alone in this! i felt very strange when i was crying uncontrollably there…but i guess the people working that have probably seen those reactions before…
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Indeed it is VERY hard to see the lovely animals dying for homes. My brother used to go to shelters and take the dogs for walks. He eventually brought home a few, one at a time, but walking really helped them. Perhaps you could do that until you can bring one home. Good luck with your search and moving to your new place!
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thanks Terri! walking the dogs seems like a great thing to do. once i get settled, i would really like to look into that. that so calls to me. thanks for the good luck w/my search and move! hope you’re well!
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Awwwwww
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🙂
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Completely understand your feelings and hoping you can give one of them a home!
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thanks Ellen and Seth – me too!
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I hear ya, I can’t set foot in that place. It’s too heart wrenching. That’s a beautiful English pointer I think in this picture. They are a great breed, very kind and gentle with kids.
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ah yes, a couple of my friends have English pointers too. so much energy and friendliness! i would totally consider getting one for myself 🙂 can’t wait till i’m in the position to do so!
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I’m convinced you’ll make a “connection” with one of the dogs you meet. That’s the way it was with Frank and me. When I walked amongst all the cages, there was just something about him. He walked over to the end of the cage and sat quietly on the other side of the chain links, wagging his tail as I talked to him. When I went on to the next cage, he just as quietly walked back to his little house.
I visited probably 40 dogs that day – took me over 2 hours – and then walked back over to Frank’s cage. He came out again, but this time, stood up on the other side of the fence. I asked him, “Do you want to go home with me, Buddy?” and he grinned (I love when dogs smile!)
That was it. There was an instant connection … and even though I visited with all the other dogs that day, I knew I was going to wind up taking Frank home.
I’m sure that if you listen to your heart, you’ll make the same connection with one of the pups you meet. Good luck … can’t wait to hear how it turns out.
Jeff
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No doubt, that is usually how it works. I’ve had the same experience multiple times. It’s one of those “meant to be” moments. 🙂
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oh, i’m so convinced this will happen too (i’m just worried it will happen with more than 1!). what a super sweet story of how you and Frank met. he is the cutest little thing, and it’s so sweet that you two lovebirds found each other 🙂 i am so looking forward to hear of your adventures on the road!!
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This hurts to read, but it’s real life and must be faced, not turned away from. Thank you for sharing this.
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