They often say that pets choose us instead of the other way around – especially when rescuing a dog or cat from a shelter.
I first saw Fred in a large room filled with cages of dogs, all hoping to make a lasting impression on the people wandering about. He was very thin and caught my eye. The shelter volunteer explained that he had been tied to a tree in a forest preserve and left there. Luckily, someone came along and brought him to the shelter, but there was no way to know how long he had been there. The volunteer asked if I wanted to meet him. Why, yes, I would.
He was brought into a small room that contained only a bench. I sat as he was let off his leash. I thought he was adorable, but I had gone to the shelter looking for a female dog. The volunteer clipped him to the leash and started to leave, but Fred turned around, came back to me and put his head on my knee.
That was it.
Of course, he came home with me. He was a goofy little guy with a bit of ADD, but incredibly sweet. He had a rough start to his life, but hopefully I gave him a better ending. We were together for more than 10 years. I lost him about a year ago and still miss him.
I don’t often remember my dreams, but last night I dreamt about Fred. I’m not sure why or all the details, but I do remember I was happy to see him.
I’m glad I remember this one.