Good Day PAWS!

I wanted to write to give you an update on Barnaby. I know so many of you loved this dog dearly, and I want to assure you that love has not been lost or forgotten…only continued in our hearts and home.

This dog is absolutely, positively the kindest, sweetest, most awesome dog ever. I am so in love with him, as is the rest of the family. I have a daughter who is turning six this year. She loves on Barnaby, lays on him, tries to bathe him and brush him, and a whole slew of other activities — and he gently and sweetly allows all of it! She loves him and he loves her. I seriously cannot express to you guys how wonderfully this dog has fit into our household.

When he first arrived he did not do much or show much enthusiasm or excitement, but I knew it would just be a matter of time for him to realize this is a place he can relax and be himself. And, yep, I was right! After about two weeks he was running, whimpering with excitement when he sees me with his leash, sniffing the morning air while sitting on the back steps, and lounging in the sun like a king! Just a perfect life for a dog, especially one that deserves it so much!

In the morning, I am the first one to wake up and he waits patiently for me to come downstairs (he is still iffy about even going upstairs and we don’t try to force it). When he sees me he does his happy dance, wagging his tail, whimpering excitedly and even doing a couple of spins and paw lifts! We go for a short morning walk and he is excellent with doing his “business” every morning during this time. Of course, he pees on every tree! In the late afternoon, I take him for a longer walk to pick up my daughter after school care and then we get to stop at the dog park for some free running time. He wasn’t sure at first, but now he loves it! He actually runs and plays with other dogs! He is even getting his voice and will tell the annoying dogs who play too rough to stop with a good firm bark…but never does he show any aggression. He is great with all dogs and all kids! Well, honestly I could go on and on about him, and I hope to bring him by the shelter soon so you can see how happy we both are!

I did want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your role in our meeting. Without all of you, this complete family would not have been possible. It pains me to know that for every Barnaby there are thousands of fates without a storybook ending. I plan on not only focusing on Barnaby’s life this day forward, but always trying to also remember the life he was lucky enough to leave behind. But, I know that what I may do in the future to help the cause of animal protection and adoption, it will not compare to the continued dedication, support, volunteerism, sacrifices, and sweat and tears the entire staff of PAWS puts into this cause.

I applaud every one of you and I am sure Barnaby thanks you, too!