Why Do You Want to Learn More About Dogs?

by Natalie

The first thing John asked me when I met him was: “Why do you want to learn more about dogs?”

The first thought that went through my head when he asked that was, “What, am I on a freaking interview??” The second thought that crossed my mind was, “He’s going to ask me that when I’m offering to help him with his fosters?!” Needless to say, the question caught me by surprise. But it shouldn’t have.

In fact, every person who ever wants to interact with animals should be required to answer that question. You shouldn’t get a dog or cat because they’re cute or because you want to cuddle with them. They are not stuffed toys that you can toss away when you’re over them. They are real, living, breathing beings who have emotions and needs. Animals are not impulse buys; it’s a commitment that lasts for years, through the good and bad, and people need to take responsibility.

But I digress.

When I actually stopped and thought about John’s question for a couple seconds, it really made me think about myself and who I am as a person. I know he probably didn’t intend for it to be that way, but it takes someone with a lot of compassion and empathy to work with animals who have been abused, abandoned and neglected. These animals are frightened of people, distrustful, possibly aggressive, depressed and more. They can break your heart, but at the same time, show you more love, loyalty, resilience and forgiveness than you could ever expect from a person. I’m constantly amazed at what the dedicated volunteers at Priceless Pets have done to help these animals find forever homes, and their endless patience and care definitely inspires and awes me.

When John asked me that question, I asked myself what I was capable of. And as much as what I don’t know scares me, I can’t even imagine what it feels like when a dog or cat is left at the shelter by their owner or abandoned on the streets to die or recklessly abused at home because they don’t follow directions.

I answered his question from the heart. I love animals. I have always cared for animals. I know that what John can teach me now will only improve my relationship with them in the future. And I know that giving these innocent animals a second chance to be themselves in a loving home is worth the heartache, pain and suffering.

I’m still learning a lot from John, Penny, Elvis and all the animals available through Priceless Pets, but every lesson and experience brings me one step closer to my goal of making a difference in these rescue dogs’ lives. If John hadn’t asked me that question, I probably would not have even realized why I wanted to come over to help him in the first place. Not even five minutes into meeting him, John already showed me a strength in myself that I didn’t know was there. I can only improve through his and his pack’s guidance, and I can’t wait.

Natalie

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