In honor of National Dog Day, I’m featuring this sweet face, our boxer lab mix, Myles. Growing up, we always had dogs so I was used to them but I’m definitely not one to walk up to strange dogs. I had a large dog jump on me when I was little breaking my collarbone so I think it always makes me a little shy at first until I know the dog.
Most people feel this way around Myles as he is 100% a big ball of energy who has no idea what his own size and strength is. In fact, he considers himself a lap dog which is pretty hilarious to see. He may be a little crazy at times but he gives us the best unconditional love, which in a house with a pre-teen and a teenager, is so refreshing.
Myles is the second dog we have had in our family and he was a rescue dog. Our first dog, Bailey, was a rescue of her own sort. We must have an affinity for energetic dogs because Bailey was pretty wild herself. When my husband and I were looking for our first condo, I will never forget taking my mom to see the place we had picked out. At the window was the sweetest golden lab. When we asked the owners what the name was and they said “Bailey”, I knew I was in love (that’s our last name). In talking to the owner, they explained that they had a 6 month old baby and didn’t have the time to care for Bailey anymore so they were looking for a home for her. In that instant, I knew God had brought this dog and home to us for a reason.
We shared some special years with Bailey while our kids were babies until she tragically was taken from us unexpectedly. When we lost her, we thought we would take a break from having a dog. Our lives were so busy with the kids that it just seemed like one less thing to worry about. We quickly realized, however, that there was a void that we felt everyday in our family. Our kids were so sad about the loss of Bailey as it was really the first true loss they had experienced. Within just a couple of months, my husband began the search for a new dog and that is how we found our Myles.
Whether your home is full and busy or quiet and lonely, there is nothing like the love of a pet to add to it. I realize not every person is a dog person and that is okay. Like I said, I’m not an instant attraction dog person myself. I will say though that there is nothing like the look of love and the kisses they give to instantly turn around your day. If you are considering a dog, I highly recommend it. Happy National Dog Day to all the fur babies out there!