Puppy Love

I've grown up with animals my whole life. I think it's safe to say that the love from a pet is unlike any other. It's forgiving, unconditional, and constant. Soon after I was born, my parents adopted a female Akita. Her name was Osita, which means baby bear cub in Spanish. She looked like a fluffy little bear cub, so the name was fitting. Her and I grew up together, and she was so gentle with me. Obviously animals can't talk, but I never worried with her. She protected and loved me.

When I was about ten years old, my dad and I adopted a crazy Chiwawa and we named him Chili. He was so koo koo, but I loved him. He was my little buddy during the time my parents divorced, and his little love helped me through a lot as a young kid going through difficult things.

Currently, I do not live with puppies. However, I have four family dogs who live at my dad and stepmom's house. My dad is basically Dr. Doolittle!

The oldest boy we have at almost sixteen years old is Patch. We adopted him when I was twelve, and he was around two years old. We got him on my dad's birthday, and immediately fell in love. He is a complete mut! When he gets excited his ears flop in different directions, which shows how mixed he is! He had so much energy as a young guy. He would run and run, and seem to never get tired like the energizer bunny. He's definitely getting up there in age now, and has slowed down. He's still so sweet and gentle.

(This is one of our kitties Tazy)

The next big boy we have is Taca our Rottweiler. This guy has what we call "small dog syndrome." He wishes he could hop on someone's lap, but he's just too big. He also could never have too much love! He gets so jealous if any of the other dogs get attention. It can get annoying, but at this point, I giggle about it. He's around nine years old.

The second oldest pup is our only girl Bella. She full of energy and excitement. When we got her, she immediately attached to Patch, and is his side kick now. She's always by his side keeping warm because she's so small. She is 12 years old, but still acts like a young pup. I think the small dogs never grow out of their baby mentality.

Our last pup is Buddy a Chiwawa mix. My little brother picked him out, and they are silly companions. They play all the time, and you can just see the love Buddy has for my brother. I've gotten to dog-sit him and few times and he's so cute! He's very attached when its just him and another person. I remember when I had him over alone without the other dogs, and he wanted to be by my side the whole time.

I think what's so incredible about my family is that all these dogs besides Osita were adopted at a shelter. Actually Buddy was the only puppy we've had. All the other doggies were full grown and needed a home. I'm so privilege to be apart of a family who adopts animals who are in need. Give your local shelter a chance. Adopt don't shop :)

All of these dogs hold a little special piece of my heart and will always be remembered. They're my family who walks on all fours.

This post was created a bit ago, but I just found out today, August 1st, that Taca has gone missing. If anyone sees him in Morgan Hill please contact me as soon as possible. This truly breaks my heart. I want to find him and give him a huge hug, so he knows how much we love him. Please contact me at christine@christinehanks.com.

Monday August 4, 2014- Taca came home! Thank you for sending all your happy and positive thoughts. He's happy, healthy, and safe at home now.