Sometimes all you need is a little nudge!

I’ve always liked dogs. I grew up with them and enjoyed playing, snuggling, and walking together. For those of you who have family pets, you know we care for them and love them wholeheartedly. If you’ve opted to go the route of a rescue dog, there is nothing like the love they bring – nothing.

I remember my childhood dog Cindy and the day we got her. At that time, I was in second grade. My dad and I went to look at dogs at a pet store during halftime of the Bears game. We looked at all the dogs in their cages, and I decided I wanted a cocker spaniel like my best friend had. The pet store had a white and beige one, and we asked to see her in the backroom. She was a puppy and full of energy. When she playfully untied my shoelaces, I was sold, and we came home with her, a new addition to our family.

So, that poses the question: does the dog pick you? I’m a firm believer that, yes, they do!

In the Fall of 2016, I purchased a house and decided it was time to get a dog of my own. Initially, I had my heart set on a Bernese Mountain Dog, so I researched breeders and contacted them. I had decided that I didn’t want a puppy but rather an older dog for my first dog. However, getting an older dog from a breeder proved to be difficult. A friend recommended looking at shelters which had never crossed my mind. That was the nudge that I needed to continue on this journey. So, naturally, I decided to do some research. When I typed into the internet “rescue dogs,” to my amazement, there were adorable dogs and heartbreaking stories. My eyes were opened to a whole new world of these innocent dogs looking for loving homes.

Eventually, in the new year of 2017, I started contacting shelters to inquire about a rescue dog, but I was naïve. I didn’t realize there was a process; it required an application and, in some cases, an interview. Initially, I didn’t understand the process or why there was one. I resented it and was frustrated that I couldn’t just walk in to see the dogs at the shelters. Now, I recognize that it is in the animals' best interest. Regardless, I followed the rules, filled out the forms, and made my appointment. Finally, in Spring 2017, my fenced-in yard was completed, and I was ready! I’ll never forget the day I was introduced to Lexi. I remember it like it was yesterday even though it was February 2017.

During my first visit to the shelter, I met five dogs, including Lexi, a black and tan coonhound/beagle mix. Each had a distinct personality: some boisterous, some quiet, and some just wanting love. To my great disappointment, I didn’t connect with any of them or feel an instant rush of confirmation. I’d waited for this day for so long and built it up so much in my mind that I left feeling deflated. I wondered how to find my dog; I knew they were out there. On the ride home, I gazed out the window and asked my dad, “Do you think I’ll ever find my dog?” I told everyone that would listen about this experience. I was beyond frustrated; dare I say hopeless. Soon after, my neighbor told me on a walk that the dog chooses you, not the other way around, and to not overthink the process. So, over the next few days, I pondered that advice and decided to give it another shot.

Despite not immediately bonding with any of the dogs, I couldn’t stop thinking about two of them, Lexi and Gracie. About a week later, I returned and hoped this time would be different. Like the last, Gracie was boisterous on this visit and bouncing all over. She wanted nothing to do with me and focused more on my dad. Lexi, on the other hand, was the exact opposite. She was timid and hid under a chair while her whole body shook. She was filled with fear and uncertainty. She’d come to the shelter with her mom and sister, but they’d already been placed with other families. Now, she was all alone, and whatever her past had taught her had left an impression on her at only three years old.

I sat on the floor, waiting to see if she would ever come out from under the chair. Forty-five minutes later, she finally did but wouldn’t let me pet her. She just stood behind me. I tried to move to see her, but the shelter handler advised me not to do so. They shared that she sought protection and felt safe standing behind me. So, while letting Lexi crouch behind me, I peppered the handler with questions: Will Lexi be good with kids? Will she ever come around? How do I know we’ll be a good match? What if she never stops being afraid?

Several minutes later, I got my sign when Lexi initiated contact and nudged my elbow with her nose. My heart melted, and I knew she was the one. I went from thinking I’d never find my furry friend to immediately wanting to take her home. Again, I learned there were additional steps in the adoption process, as we had to arrange some home visits and ease into things.

After two more home visits and further bonding - months after deciding to adopt a dog - Lexi finally came home for good in April 2017! I jumped in with my heart wide open to welcome my furry friend home. Now, Lexi is more than just a rescue dog; she is a part of our family. I am so grateful that we found each other.

#journeyhomeforrescuedogs

#rescuedogs

#lexithecoonhoundfindsanewhome!