The fuzzy, floppy, gentle love from a dog is one of the best loves you'll ever find. It's the kind of love that doesn't have an ending point, only a beginning. Slobbery kisses, drooling goo on your lap, and your foot that has fallen asleep while a pooch is perched on it happier than ever.
A few weekends ago I went into a jewelry store that happened to be right next to a pet shop that had only dogs. For me, there is nothing worse but to see a ton of dogs that need a good home. My heart usually sinks, and tears swell in my eyes as I bend down to their cages. I whisper softly to them 'don't worry, you'll get a good home I promise,' not even knowing if they will.
My parents have a golden, Topaz, who is 13 years old. He is my best friend, and has been the best dog. His personality is filled with big wet, sloppy kisses, emotional pain when my parents are gone for too long, and a love that only a dog can have. He is simple - a few games of catch, a nap here and there, a walk in the morning and a big lump in the kitchen my mom trips over while she makes dinner. Topaz is lucky, he, unlike so many other dogs has a loving family and is cared for with all the affection he could ever need.
About a year or more ago, Pedigree had a commercial running that really touched me about shelter dogs. It's the kind of commercial that just sticks with you; one you probably won't ever forget. Their commercial's slogan was "we are for dogs."
As I sit here online and scan down the list of thousands of dogs that need a good home, I am humbled. Wally, Cuddles, Rex, Buddy, Rocky, Christine, Rosco, Missy, Oscar, Bowser and the list goes on with pictures of each dog, their breed, gender, age, and personality. One website even lists how long the dog has been in the shelter for.
I too, am for dogs and if I had all the money I could get I'd build a place for dogs. Where we can finally give to them what they have given to us. It would be a place where the existence of all dogs is celebrated, and to give thanks to their commitment to the longevity and healthiness of our lives.
It would be a place where finding a good loving home was not a priority, and the absence of affection never a thought. A place where fetch was a routine and walks never hard to come by. Where lazy days became the norm, and sloppy kisses were welcomed. Where going for a run had no time restrictions and ball was the game of choice. A place where treats come by the handfuls, love comes without question, and the feeling of being home was what matter most of all. Because I too am for dogs.
So please, if you think you are going to be getting a dog soon drop by a shelter, or if you just want to do something kind, donate a few bucks as you check out at Petco or PetSmart. Because we can all be for dogs, and finding them a little love just might get a bit easier.