Wanted: A Place to Retire

Another “Tail” from the Shelter

It was unseasonably hot today in Huntington Beach. The sun shone down on my shoulders and the sea breeze was warm with the scent of sand and surf.

I am grateful, you know.

At 72 I don’t take for granted that I still can walk easily and enjoy the many freedoms this marvelous country affords me.

One of my greatest pleasures is visiting with our shelter dogs and giving them not only time out of the pens but lots of petting, belly rubs, and even a pep talk when it’s needed.

Today as I entered the shelter, I was greeted by one of our older residents—Dozer, a mild mannered, lovable senior citizen who, for what reason I honestly do not know, is now sitting on a concrete floor in a pen at the shelter.

new-dozer1Dozer is one of those sweet older dogs who doesn’t complain about his fate, he just looks up at you with eyes that are not as sharp as they once were but are still full of love.

I noticed that he walks a little stiff and I can relate to the little aches and pains of age, so we sort of understand each other.

What truly touched my heart today happened when we sat at the curb to rest a bit and share a cuddle.

No sooner did I sit down then Dozer came up to my knee and rested his head on it—and then lifted that sweet face up to my cheek and licked me.

I knew I had to write about him because although they all touch my heart, this little old man deserves so much more than he is now receiving.

Dozer is hoping some kind soul will give him a comfortable home to live out his remaining years and a good-hearted person to show his gratitude to—and don’t think for a moment he won’t do that. He is a true gentleman.

I made sure before I left him that there was a warm bed for him to cuddle up in even though he didn’t ask for it. You see, he makes so few demands. He just wants someone to look past the vestiges of age and see the loving soul wrapped up inside.

Please visit Dozer at the Humane Society on Newland in Huntington Beach.

dozer-1

He would love to have company and perhaps the chance to lick another cheek.

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Having lived these good many years, (71 to be exact), has given me the opportunity to reflect on what I value most. Family, good friends, and the precious pets that have shared my life  have enriched me as a person. I’ve evaluated what is most important to me and what lessons I’ve learned, and what I’ve determined is that I want to leave this world a better place for having lived here. It is one of my deepest desires to be able to help those who have no voice — because animals have always played an important role in my life. They were constant friends when the world around me was changing.  One, (a small parakeet named Petie), accompanied me when as a child my family moved across country twice, (New York to California and back again)-I can still see Petie in his small travel cage sitting on my lap as I explained to him where we were stopping for the night and feeling that his company as well as my dear parents were all I needed to feel safe and secure. My pets were with me in good times and bad, often being the consistent non-judgmental voice my heart needed. Although I spent my working years as a commercial artist, both teaching the craft at a local college and in my own studio, it seems that in my later years it is by painting with words that I am now able to reach out to people, and it is my joy to do just that. I hope my stories help to connect people to kindred souls that wear fur on their faces but are just as capable as we are to feel great love in their hearts.  Rescue animals particularly deserve another chance at a happy life and it is my honor to bring their stories to light and hopefully be the catalyst that joins two different species on their journey. The connection we share with our pets is like no other, There is no need to be anything other than who and what you are. No amount of money or privilege will impress them as much as your kindness and attention. I do know that in the final analysis, life is good and most people honestly want to do the right thing. If that includes opening their home and heart to another living being, then my purpose is accomplished. I hope in some small way I can contribute to that greater good. Bio- Born in Middle Village, New York- 1945 Mother to a wonderful son, Michael who truly would be a cherished friend even if we weren't related--and fortunate in meeting my kind and thoughtful soulmate, Burt, in later life- I am blessed indeed. Retired teacher/ Orange Coast College/ former owner and operator of a commercial art business in Huntington Beach, California.
 Lucky to have had the opportunity to work in the art field where I was often quoted as saying, "You mean I am being paid for something I love to do?!"

 Interests: travel, enjoying local points of interest, movies, volunteering at the Newland Animal Shelter and writing about the wonderful personalities I have been honored to meet there, both human and furry-faced, and generally enjoying the retired life.

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