by Janine Allen

I rescued a human today.

Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels.

I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her.

I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn’t be afraid.

As she stopped at my kennel, I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage.

I didn’t want her to know that I hadn’t been walked today.

Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy, and I didn’t want her to think poorly of them.

As she read my kennel card, I hoped that she wouldn’t feel sad about my past.

I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone’s life.

She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me.

I shoved my shoulder and the side of my head up against the bars to comfort her.

Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.

A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well.

Soon my kennel door opened, and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms.

I would promise to keep her safe.

I would promise to always be by her side.

I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.

I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor.

So many more are out there who haven’t walked the corridors.

So many more to be saved.

At least I could save one.

I rescued a human today.

About Janine Allen
Janine Allen is a certified professional dog trainer and behavior Specialist.

She has 35 years of education/experience in pet dog training, shelter dog training, aggressive/fearful behavior rehabilitation, house manners, AKC obedience competition and competition field retrievers.

Learn more about Janine Allen and her services at www.janineallen.com.