August

Isn’t he cute? That’s August or, as we usually call him, Augie. Yes, that’s right, you’re already-busy editor and her family have accepted the challenge of a new dog! What are we crazy? Yes, probably. But, I ask again: Isn’t he cute? Well, yes, he is!

Augie is an American Brittany. We found him via the American Brittany Rescue. Now, while having him join our family has been a challenge—we all have to adjust to the new rules and needs—he’s a marvelous dog, full of energy, loving, and a barrel of laughs. Adopting any pet always guarantees an adjustment period where emotions ride the Screamer and we ask ourselves what the hell we were thinking. Still, I think it’s more important to say what a great experience it is to adopt a rescue pet. All the minor troubles and oogy dribbles will pass into memory. Really, they will…

We have three cats—two of them are elderly—and two children (none of them elderly). I can’t stress enough how essential it was to find a dog ready for that environment. In the past we’ve gotten shelter dogs—and with great results. But things were a bit dicier this time.

Rescue dogs are thoroughly checked out by the rescue group, fostered in members’ homes, assessed by veterinarians, and loved. It’s a great way to adopt! Don’t get me wrong, choosing a shelter dog who might be euthanized if not adopted is important, too, but there are many rescue dogs out there—some purebred, some mixes—waiting for homes. If your family has special needs or you’re looking to adopt a senior dog, you can’t miss.

We’re grateful to the ABR and its network of wonderful foster families and volunteers. Augie is too! And even if you’re not in a position to adopt, there are rescue groups for nearly all breeds, and they need your help. If you can’t adopt, please donate!