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Healing and love - Floyd


Seven years ago today,  Floyd brought his intense and energetic spirit into my life. Even though, I adopted him, I feel he chose me. I had lost my sweet, Schmoozer not long ago. I have always felt somewhat purposeless without a dog. So, although I was still aching from the loss I was looking for a new companion. The rescue group talked about his energy and fear in careful terms, trying to admit his issues but make him sound appealing. I could read between the lines and kn

When I went to meet him, he did better with me than I or the rescue group expected. That didn't mean he came to me with tail wagging. Floyd life was full of fear and he spent his time hiding, pacing, and cowering, but when we met he didn't try to hide. He maintained his distance and was panting so hard, that if he was a human I would have assumed he was hyperventilating. His eyes were big and frightened and he panted in fear but he also seemed to stare into my soul.
Normally, when I introduce myself to a dog, I get down and solicit their sloppy joy. I love how completely a dog can engage with me, whether it's through happy wiggles or a quiet, soulful, lean. I didn't ask or expect this from Floyd. Although, we didn't connect in that way, I was ready to bring him home.
Although I secured him in the back of my car, before I'd even left the parking lot he was in the front seat. The fact he had been secured in that back, didn't matter. He wanted to be near me, as he began this new journey. And yes, although it wasn't the best way to drive, Floyd was soon in my lap.
Seven years later, Floyd still draws strength from me. When uncertain, my pushes himself up against me as if he's trying to climb inside. He is smarter than I imagined and created all sorts of chaos in our lives. He lives life at full speed; demanding, reacting, loving and being incredibly silly. Sometimes, I'll see him looking out at the world with confidence and curiosity instead of fear. As I watch his eyes shine with his bright spirit, I am excited to discover where this journey will lead us.
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