I came home from the dog pound 2 years ago with a large dog. He was to be my companion and protection. If I traveled to Ohio from MI.he would be my companion and protector on the road. Since DH and I are retired and alone this dog has become like our child. "Come to mama" "Get over there and sit next to your daddy " are not uncommon in our home.

He is so much more than just a dog. He is the perfect excuse for not getting pressured into re-engaging with the adult steps. Accusations of "me" being the bad guy for not just "getting over it" have now been placed elsewhere.

Dear pound dog you have turned out to truly be a best friend. You are so gentle that your best buddy is the 3 pound dog that wandered into your fenced yard. I watched you curl up with a tiny kitten and sleep. If the bedroom floor is filled with my grandchildren and their sleeping bags, by morning I will find you on the floor snuggled up with them. There is nothing aggressive about you.

Dear pound dog, you proved your worth as protector. Your low toned growl has stopped more than one stranger from attempting to open the door until you are given the friend command. I have seen first hand how fast you can bring an adult to the ground with out biting when neccesary.

Dear pound dog, You become the reason that I can not possibly travel with DH to see the steps. They can not accomadate a dog of your size in their apartments and you can not be left at home for more then a few hours. " What a good dog"