A Stranger’s Gift

I love Basset Hounds. Don’t remember a time when I didn’t. Can’t really say why. What I do know is something happens to me when I see those hang-dog ears, deeply expressive eyes and long, low bodies that turns me into a giggly six year old squealing with glee.

Based on my limited knowledge of hound dogs, I concluded long ago I could not have one for my very own. I’d been told by trainers and behaviorists that Basset Hounds are for the experienced dog person. I’m not that.

Then, Blossum, Basset Hound, came into my life, my home and my heart.

Divine intervention is my only explanation. The process and the players are astounding to me, even now as I look back to share with you. 

In last week’s post I told you about the prompt I was given in writing class to write about a pet. 

Four weeks later, Blossum.

Here’s how it happened:

My weekly talk with my spiritual mentor Jack continued the exploration of my ongoing “dog issues.” When he asked what kind of dog I want, I had my usual answer, “Oh Jack, I want so many different breeds of dog,” in my usual vague, whiny voice. “Pick three and start looking,” he said without missing a beat. Wow. It was so refreshing to hear such solid, simple direction. That day, I posted three ads on Craigslist:

“Looking to adopt a female Golden Retriever (Lab mix, Welsh Corgi) around 2-3 years old

I have time, energy and resources to love and care for her and a backyard where she can play.

It’s important that she get along with my male cat, Duncan.

If you know of a dog that fits that description, please contact me.”

I heard from all kinds of individuals and organizations. Not one dog spoke to my heart. I reposted the ads once and then let them expire. Disappointed, I was still at square one. No dog.

About a week later, Sue had a birthday celebration for her 10 year old Golden Retriever, Dazzle. I told everyone at the party I was looking for a dog. Jenn mentioned a rescue group and found the website to show me. As we scrolled through the available dogs, I saw an adorable male basset/lab mix named Shorty and I decided to go see him. 

Sunday morning I was at the rescue as soon as they opened. I asked to see Shorty and take him for a walk. He was a delight. Adjacent to the parking lot was a wildlife refuge populated with Canada geese, widgeons and wood ducks. I was curious to see how Shorty would react as the birds came into view; if he had a high prey drive it could be a problem for Duncan. Shorty gave them a quick glance but wasn’t the least bit interested. Pleased about that, I sat down on the curb to pet Shorty. He was soft and gentle. I thought I wanted a girl, but this boy was quickly edging his way into my heart. 

Being too unsure to make a decision on my own, I called my friend Risa, an experienced dog person, and asked if she would come look at Shorty. The rescue would not hold dogs, so I brought Shorty back as I waited. Just as Risa pulled into the parking lot, I saw Shorty walking with a couple and their pug. “Risa” I whispered, “That’s him. Those people are walking him.” I was shocked. Most people think Basset mixes are funny looking so I didn’t think there’d be much interest in him. Obviously I wrong. Shorty was indeed being adopted! As we sadly walked back to our cars, Risa was trying to be supportive. She knew how disappointed I was. The most important thing she said to me was “You can trust your intuition. He was a great dog.” That was validating…but painful. 

Tuesday morning I told Jack what happened. We talked about the lesson here and what I can take from the experience. I knew it was my hesitation, the lack of trust in myself. I reposted my ads on Craigslist, substituting Basset Hound for Welsh Corgi.  

The next day (the Universe doesn’t waste much time!) I received an email from a stranger who had seen my Craigslist ad, giving me the link to a rescue organization with a Basset Hound available for adoption. A two year old female Basset Hound! My heart’s desire. She would be available for adoption on Saturday morning at 11:00 at the local Pet Smart. 

I arrived promptly at 11:00 am … and there she was. Without a doubt, it was love at first sight. I took her for the perfunctory walk…but I knew. Without any hesitation I said “She’s mine.”

Since that day five and a half years ago, Blossum, the Basset Hound of my dreams, snoozes on my bed and snuggles in my heart every day and every night.

Epilogue

Blossum and Duncan are the best of friends and have been from the moment they met.

I called to thank the stranger who brought Blossum to me and let her know my doggie girl is lying on my couch. The photo of that moment, her first night with me, accompanies this posting!