Cassidy was so exuberant on our walk today! Her enthusiasm compelled me to sit down and write a quick piece about today’s experience.
As I approached CompAnimals Pet Rescue Center, I immediately noticed how busy it looked – several people in the office, people bustling around, a dog coming back from a walk. As usual, there were several dogs free in the office, socializing. I absolutely love seeing the dogs have this opportunity to interact, enjoy and learn from each other.
The manager suited Cassidy up and gave me a wet leash after I expressed an interest in taking Cassidy to a creek nearby – “it’s already wet, you might as well use this one!”
Although I was not surprised, Cassidy still wowed me – she walked calmly through the commotion in the office. I think I counted 5 loose dogs, 3 of which I hadn’t seen her meet yet. Frankly, she just pleasantly ignored them – I think she had her mind on the adventure ahead.
But then something did get her attention… the people! She noticed every single person, and we did not get to my car without her providing an individual greeting to each person. If she were a person herself, she could be a politician! “Hi John, so nice to see you again! “Wait a sec, Leanne, don’t run off without a proper hello!” When that was all done, she walked confidently to my car, perfectly clear on what was next, sat and looked up at me with a twinkle in her eye. I realized she was just asking for a little lift into the back. Did I, in that moment, see Cassidy’s future… as a Therapy Dog? Doggie Diplomat who appreciates each individual person? Ready to jump in the car for the next voyage? I think she’d be a great candidate…
At the park, she was so happy, and seemed to try to squeeze in every joy at once! I’m sure she realized time was limited and she needed to take it all in quickly. The best grass, the multitude of scents all over the trail, a giant puddle of fresh rain water, the creek, and… (to my enjoyment) me. We stopped for a few breaks and she clowned around with me, wiggled on her back and even climbed into my lap for snuggles! I grabbed a few sticks for her, which she agreed were the finest sticks in the park. She retrieved and/or carried each stick until discovering the next wonder.
When we got back to the Center, Cassidy cooperated beautifully while I tried her new “Adopt Me” vest on for a quick photo. We walked back inside, happy to see everyone including an additional 2 loose dogs we had not encountered before, and she lay down on the concrete floor for a nice cool-down.
What a fun hour appreciating life’s treasures, and I prayed all the way home she’d find a family to give her many more such hours. As Cassidy’s Pen Pal, I visit her about once a week to give her some extra fun, enjoy a mutual friendship, and hopefully contribute to her finding a forever home.
