What I like about my dog
Everything--she is my heart!
What my dog likes best about me
I am The Mama, who loves her unconditionally.
Number of people I've met through my dog
Hundreds? She's an extrovert, who loves to meet new people.
If I didn't have a dog, I'd like a...
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Growing up, our family usually had a couple of purebred dogs in the family--pembroke welsh corgis, basenjis, westies. Then my brother and I both adopted mixed breed dogs, and we were hooked on mutts. I had a little sheltie mix named Dutchess who was my heart. She died of lung cancer at age 7, and I still tear up when I think about her.
My father limited the creatures in our family. He'd say, "Little Sweetheart, when you grow up and get married, and your husband is willing, you can have a household full of animals. My husband's mother was nuts about animals, so he knew the kind of woman he was marrying.
At present we co-habitate with three dogs and four cats who are all rescues of some dimension. I also keep a dozen nonvenomous snakes and two lizards.
I hold very strong beliefs concerning the spay and neuter of companion and feral animals. It's necessary for the aninals' quality of life. Overpopulation only leads to euthanization. Responsible pet ownership is an ethical obligation in our society. So are the pets who are released to lives beyond house and yard.
When not working for animal welfare groups, I spend time with endangered animal education at our local zoo.
In all probability, Louise & her sister Thelma were orphaned feral puppies. They were found at approx. 2 months of age, and fostered by the DeSoto Animal Rescue Society in Mississippi. At about 3.5 months of age, I fell in love with her photo on Petfinder. Ginger, Daddy and Mommy went to the adoption event on Valentine's Day. Ginger chose Louise to be her little sister.
Louise is very timid and shy. Everything in the world scares her except for her mommy, daddy, pup sisters, and puff-fuzzes (kitties). Every day I take her forth into the world, and it's just a bit less scary by the time we go home.
We attend obedience classes, and her comfort zone has expanded to include the physical space and familiar dogs and people. I doubt she will ever compete, but my hope is that she will gain confidence in herself. I love her very much, and only want what is best for her. My dream is that she become brave enough to walk confidently through the world.
Brownie has been through basic obedience (twice) and has now started Rally class. When the AKC opens obedience events to mixed breeds in the Spring, I hope that Brownie Maeve will be ready to participate, and enjoy the experience.
Brownie is an intelligent, spirited girl who loves her Mommy & Daddy. She often snuggles next to me on the couch, and is happy for the opportunity. She is a happy girl who seems to appreciate all the little niceties that being in our family provides. Car rides, dog park, walks--it's like she relishes and savors every moment. I'm glad that she decided to join our family.
