National Rescue Dog Day

In 2018 “National Rescue Dog Day” was founded by National Day Calendar and Tails That Teach to recognize “all the benefits of allowing a four-legged canine to adopt you into their immeasurably lovable life on National Rescue Dog Day.”

A little over 14 years ago Cindy and I were rescued by Bella when she came into our lives via a rescue dog service in Asheville, North Carolina. We could never have imagined all the love, beauty and wonder she would bring to us just by her presence.

After we suddenly and tragically lost “Wolf” in 2010 I did want not another dog in my life. Wolf was the first living thing that Cindy and I had in our lives that neither of us had brought to our marriage from our previous lives. His unexpected death had torn both of our hearts to shreds and I did not want to even entertain the idea of opening mine to another chance of such pain. But Cindy was alone at the cabin while I travelled for my job and she wanted the comfort and presence of a dog.

And because, for me, the pain of loss I knew would come one day was not as great as the pain of not making my wife happy in the here and now, we began searching local rescue organizations to find another dog for her so she could have some companionship while alone at the cabin.

When we finally found the little puppy who we would name “Bella” we both knew it. She was so cute, and loving and full of energy. Once she became part of our family we discovered how incredibly smart she was. Smart enough, in fact, to try to make us believe she wasn’t smart when in fact she was, lol.

Through the past 14 years, she has brought so much love, happiness and yes, companionship to both of us. If you have a furry family member, you know what I’m talking about.

We are especially grateful to have her with us to celebrate National Rescue Dog Day this year because a little over a year ago we were told by a vet that she is suffering from Stage Three Kidney Failure and would not be with us much longer. Thankfully, that was not the case. She remains in Stage Three but is still enjoying life with us as we travel. For that we are SO happy and we hope to have her with us for as long as possible.

I hope you can find a way to celebrate National Rescue Dog Day, either with your own rescue dog or by volunteering with or donating to a rescue organization.