What IF

What if no one ever wants to adopt Sophie? Or any foster dog we care for? Sophie is a good case in point, because she is a bit of a challenge. She is not the type that adapts easily. Adaptability is a good quality in a foster dog. Or a spouse, teacher, boss, friend, coworker, child....you get my drift. Adaptability is a good quality.

Maybe she ended up in rescue because she lacks this skill. Hank ended up in rescue, I believe, because he has cancer. Mick did because he was the last of a litter and the farmer couldn't find a home for him. Pete entered rescue because of divorce. Sidney was dumped because he sunburned easily and lacked the drive to be a good hunter. Kobe was a prince in hobo's clothing who was abused and abandoned.

All entered rescue for one reason or another. Some found homes within months, some much longer. A fellow foster home inquired how long it takes for our dogs to find homes. I think she was looking for encouragement and a definite answer. It takes as long as it takes and sometimes longer. Probably not the answer she was looking for.

All I can say is what if? What if these dogs never entered my life? What if they never got a second chance. What if Sophie is always the way she is. Is she adoptable yes! Is she adorable - totally. She, like many rescue dogs, simply require an adopter with a larger than normal heart. Someone not looking for a perfect dog, but rather a dog who is perfect for them.

None of us are perfect. Sophie may not adapt easily, but she is perfect for someone who wants a little bit of a pointer with a huge quotient of personality and affection. She adapts in her own way and on her own time table. Proof that there are great rewards for patience and persistence. A perfect dog would lack the volumes of character that come with her. That is a politically correct way to say she's a little nut case in a cute wrapper. But for now she's our little nut case, and in time she will be someone elses little nutcase. We just need to find that special person. I have no doubt we will.