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“Every time I thought I was being rejected from something good, I was actually being redirected to something better.” Steve Maraboli
Today is the 7th anniversary of adopting my rescue dog Squirt! I have been trying to come up with the words to describe what a life changing event this has been and how much he means to me but I really can’t.

I was so devastated by the sudden and unexpected death of my Aussie Frankie. I tried to go without a dog for a while but felt like life was incomplete, just not as much fun! So I started looking at Aussie rescue groups, thinking I would adopt a rescue. I thought that with my long history of Aussie ownership and club participation I would be a good candidate. However, after being lied to and ignored by various groups, I began to think I would never find a dog that was a fit for me.\"\"

But as they say, everything happens for a reason. I began looking for Aussie mixes. I saw Squirt on line and applied that night! His little whimsical smile touched my heart. I was truly not expecting a response to my application. To my surprise, the rescue rep contacted me the next day acknowledging receiving my application. I had been approved by another Aussie rescue group and had passed their home visit so she felt we could move along with the process.

Long story short, I made an appointment to see him. I was so nervous the night before, worrying that he would suddenly become “unavailable” as so many other dogs had; that she would let him be adopted right out from under me, first come, first serve. When I arrived at the appointed time, there was a gathering of people waiting to see him too. To my surprise, the rep waited for me to arrive; “You have an appointment, you have the first choice. Take all the time you need.” What a relief! Maybe this time things would work out; I would like him ,he would like me, and he would be available!

In the end, after walking around for awhile and hanging out, when he leaned up against me we decided to give each other a try!  As I was signing the adoption paperwork, I noticed the date that Squirt came into rescue, 12/31/10, the same day my beloved dog Frankie passed away. I like to think it was all meant to be.

 Although Squirt is a certified therapy dog, currently at the Ronald McDonald House, a Canine Good Citizen, an agility dog, and my shop dog,  faithful friend and wingman are the roles I value most! We have had so many adventures together and hope we have time for many more. I love him so much! Happy Adoption Day, Little Squirt Just Bein’ Me, formerly “Rascal”. I am a better person for having you in my life.

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