“They’re in the back. They tend to get a bit loud, so they have their own area of the building. Follow me.”
Jan led us to the back and as soon as she opened the second set of doors we walked through, I understood what she meant.
“Each kennel has a doggie door so they can lay in the sun in their own little back yard.” While I appreciated that, I hated how cold and concrete each kennel was. They did have a bed, blanket, and a couple of toys, but it was so sterile, and she must’ve read that on my face. “We do the best with the donations we get, and thanks to vets like Dr. Tim, we’re able to offer free shots, spays, and neuters with each adoption.”
My daddy was the best!
The doggies barked as we passed their kennels, but I made sure to say hi to each one. I didn’t want them to feel ignored or sad that I didn’t choose them. But so far all of the ones we’d seen were so big they’d drag me if I tried to take them on a walk.
“I love all these doggies but they’re bigger than me.” Daddy and Jan laughed.
“We have some mid-size and small breeds as well.” Through another set of doors we went and into the more Jamie sized dog area. “Most are mixed breeds. The full breed rescues tend to pull those as soon as we get them. One secret about mixed versus full breeds is that the mixed tend to live longer lives.”
“That’s interesting to know but still so sad too.” It was overwhelming and I wanted to take them all home with me.
“I know that look, Jamie,” Daddy smiled and rubbed my back. “It’s the same one that led me to be a vet. I love all the animals too, and want to take them home, but that’s just not realistic.”
Sad as it was, Daddy was right. “What about this little one?” I read the bio on the kennel. “Sancho. Five-year-old neutered male terrier-cocker spaniel mix.” He was brown and white with a couple black spots and his hair stood up all over. “He’s so fuzzy.”
“He is,” Jan said as she opened the kennel and brought him out. “Let’s go into a meet and greet room so we can see how he reacts to you.”
I finished saying hello to all the other pups as I followed behind her. Daddy sat on the bench next to Jan while I sat on the floor. It took a few minutes for Sancho to come over to me and when he did, he gently licked my hand, then crawled up in my lap just like I did with daddy.
“I think he likes you. Sancho’s owner passed away and the family didn’t have the time to care for him, so sadly, they had to give him up. They said he’s house broken and gets along with other dogs, yet they still gave him up. Butit’s better they did that if they didn’t have the time for him.”
“Da, err, Tim.” My eyes teared up as I stared down at the sweet soul who’d claimed me. “Sancho likes me.”
“Yes, he does, sweetheart.” Daddy came and sat beside me and rubbed Sancho’s head. “What do you say, Jamie?”
It was so weird using each other’s real names, but I was ready to take Sancho home. “Can we take Sancho home today.”
“You can,” Jan smiled. “I just need a few minutes to get his paperwork together.”
“Let’s do some Sancho shopping in the shelter store. That way the money goes directly to them and all the lives they save.” Daddy was so smart and always wanting to help others in need.
“I’ll be right back to take you to your new home with us, Sancho. Would you like that? I can promise you’ll have lots of toys.” Sancho licked my nose and I giggled. “I love you too, Sancho.” I hated handing him back to Jan, but I knew in a few minutes he’d be in my arms forever. With one last kiss to his head, Daddy and walked over to the shelter store.
“Oh my gosh, it’s huge.” This was like doggie and kitty paradise. They literally had everything.
“A lot of this merchandise is donated, or clearance buy outs from stores that have closed. I not only donate time, but money as well. This is a cause so near and dear to my heart, and I truly believe in their mission and the fact they’re a no-kill shelter.”
Hearing that pretty much sold me on them too. “Do you think if I worked here, they’d let me play with the animals and work in the store too?”
“I bet they would,” a girl about my age said. She was wearing the same t-shirt about the shelter as Jan was and her name tag said Michelle.
“Hello Michelle, this is my partner Jamie and we just adopted Sancho.”
“Squee!” she cheered. I loved her energy. “We are looking for help, and if your versatile, they will move you where they need you, Jamie. And we always, always, always get to play with the animals.”
And she said things in threes.
“Daddy, I want to be her friend.” I may’ve said it a little loud because Michelle hugged me a little too tight.
“Me too!” She squealed. “Here’s a basket, have fun shopping and we can exchange numbers when you check out.” She skipped off toward the front of the store, singing to herself.
“I think Michelle would be a great friend for you. Now, let’s shop for our new furry friend.”
One filled shopping cart later and Sancho had two beds, because one wasn’t enough. A new rainbow collar and matching leash. The rainbow after all is gender neutral. Balls and tuggies and stuffies and all kinds of toys. Food, dishes, treats and even a silly sweater for winter we couldn’t pass up. I was so excited to get it home and set up.
