Calling all SW doggie lovers! (Update)
A bit over five weeks ago I posted that I was thinking of getting a dog after I move back home (https://similarworlds.com/pets/dogs/4523357-Calling-all-SW-doggie-lovers-As-most-of-my-friends). At the time one of my most awesome friends here (@Vivaci) suggested I look into a retiring military working dog. As someone just about to finish up my own 5-1/2 years of military service, the idea was immediately attractive to me!
I reached out to some people I know in Virginia Beach who work with Navy dogs and began exploring this option. A couple weeks later I found myself driving down to meet one such beautiful animal. She was a retiring Belgian Malinois, nine years old, and so beautiful and loving. We bonded instantly. I wanted her in my life. But she had another option. The other option didn't have a place to live yet and was just assembling a life as he too was leaving the service. I thought I presented a much better option for Ginger.
I found out two days ago that Ginger wouldn't be coming to stay with me. I brought her some toys and treats and left them with her new companion. They had served together; he wasn't her handler, but he was in the same platoon. It made sense. They needed each other in a way that I will never know. I wished them well and gave her lots of hugs and kisses.
Okay, so am I sad? Yes, of course. I had very quickly fallen in love with her. But she is going to have a great retirement and she is going to be able to continue her life of service with her old friend. I get it.
Moving on ... This taught me that I absolutely need a dog when I get home. I have the month of January off (terminal leave) and will be spending much of it looking for my new furry roommate. I'll keep ya posted! ;)
I reached out to some people I know in Virginia Beach who work with Navy dogs and began exploring this option. A couple weeks later I found myself driving down to meet one such beautiful animal. She was a retiring Belgian Malinois, nine years old, and so beautiful and loving. We bonded instantly. I wanted her in my life. But she had another option. The other option didn't have a place to live yet and was just assembling a life as he too was leaving the service. I thought I presented a much better option for Ginger.
I found out two days ago that Ginger wouldn't be coming to stay with me. I brought her some toys and treats and left them with her new companion. They had served together; he wasn't her handler, but he was in the same platoon. It made sense. They needed each other in a way that I will never know. I wished them well and gave her lots of hugs and kisses.
Okay, so am I sad? Yes, of course. I had very quickly fallen in love with her. But she is going to have a great retirement and she is going to be able to continue her life of service with her old friend. I get it.
Moving on ... This taught me that I absolutely need a dog when I get home. I have the month of January off (terminal leave) and will be spending much of it looking for my new furry roommate. I'll keep ya posted! ;)
26-30, F
