We all know the benefits that a dog can bring to everyone, and those who suffer with mental, physical and/or emotional issues are no exception. The company of a furry companion has been known to greatly ease anxiety, stress and depression while allowing the person in its presence to receive comfort and security. Many of our women deal with the pain of grief, guilt, stress, anxiety , depression or loneliness, and for years, a sweet Boxer named Daisy moved among them each day. She always seemed to be in the right place at the right time when someone needed her help. When she had to be put down last July, it was a dark day for all who knew her, and the atmosphere of our building somehow changed. It was as if someone had turned out a light.
The common question then became, “When are you going to get another dog?” Well, my secret decision was to not get another dog. While Boxers work very well in this environment due to their great people-loving skills (they are also smart; quick learners; they don’t shed much and they don’t have tails to knock over objects or people!), they are also extremely energetic and stubborn as puppies, and, therefore, their owners have to have lots of energy, patience and the ability to be consistent! Being ten years older than when I last undertook the training of a Boxer puppy made a huge difference in my level of excitement at the prospect of doing it again :-)!! However, a visit from my son’s dog during the Christmas holiday caused me to realize that the atmosphere in our building had once again changed because of her presence. The women seemed more happy and carefree! Sweet Layla had just come in, picked up the “helping ball” and run with it! When she went back home there was yet another hole in the hearts of the women who had befriended her. That’s when I said, “Okay, God! If you want us to have a puppy at Shepherd’s Gate then you will have to show me–clearly–which one You have chosen to be here. After a few weeks of looking online for Boxer Puppies in Greenville, SC, I had come right back to the decision of NOT getting another dog. There were so many cute faces and sweet stories, but looking at them made me feel insufficient for the task! Then one morning, I picked up my phone, pressed the Kindle button so that I could have my devotions (yes, I am one of those who has The Bible on her phone!) and up popped–-10 Boxer Puppies Needing New Homes. Really, I’m not kidding!!! Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Well, He was definitely directing my steps!!! As I scrolled through the ten pictures that were posted the same little face kept touching my heart.
So–that’s how Sadie came to Shepherd’s Gate. She is now a 5 month old bundle of energy who loves all of the women and children! We keep a bell on her collar most of the time just in case the staff are required to go seeking Sadie!! The atmosphere in our building has once again taken on a more home-like feel, and we see those needing to feel an extra measure of love or a bit of de-stressing during the day seeking Sadie for a game of fetch or because they just want to quietly sit and pet her. She has become a pet to those who miss their own or to those who never had one. Seeking Sadie has become a common thing to do around here and Sadie loves every moment of it!!!
