Stan the Man

If there are no dogs in Heaven then, when I die, I want to go where they went.
- Will Rogers

One year ago today, our little family went from 2 to 3. Yes, today we are celebrating one year since we adopted our dog, Stanley, a day that Drew and I have quite adorably dubbed our "Staniversary."

Last January, after many months, Drew finally begged  persuaded me to get a dog. We had looked online at some different rescues down here, but decided the Saturday after we got back from our holiday travels to check out a few adoption events that were happening in the county over. Three pet stores later, we met Stanley.

There were two other puppies in crates when we saw Stan, and while they were flipping out he was laying calmly in his crate. He was 5-6 months old at that point, and about 30 pounds. It didn't take long for his shiny black coat, adorably floppy ears and calm but curious demeanor to win us over. We filled out the paperwork, and with the blessing of his foster mom who we met that day, we took him home!

Drew was definitely the dog person in our relationship prior to this point, but Stanley turned me into a dog person. I mean, who could resist this cutie?? Owning a dog is not always fun or convenient, but this guy makes it so worth it. He's always good for a self-esteem boost when I'm wiped after work and he is so excited to see me come home. He's a great cuddler and good company when Drew is gone. And he helps keep my kitchen floors clean. Or, at least, without any crumbs :)

Stanley was found as a 8ish week old puppy wandering the streets, malnourished and alone. But thanks to the Johnston County Animal Protection League, and Stanley's wonderful foster mom, Sherry, he was taken off the street and brought into a home full of love. Sherry trained and socialized Stanley, and I'm so grateful to her for the wonderful job she did with him. We feel so happy to have found him, and I know that a big part of that is thanks to her :)

So, if you're thinking about getting a dog (or a cat for that matter!), PLEASE consider adopting through a rescue organization! There are so many animals in need of homes, and many organizations work tirelessly to give care for these creatures who desperately need someone to love them, and who desperately want someone to love back.

 So, as I finish typing this post and Stanley quite adorably rests his head on my arm, I am feeling very blessed and so grateful. Grateful that Drew convinced me to get a dog, grateful to Sherry for taking such good care of Stanley until we found him, and grateful for this silly and wonderful creature falling asleep against me, who has, in one short year, taught me so much about love and companionship. I'm happy to have you to love, Stan the Man, and so glad that you love us back.

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. 
- Roger Caras