Dog Stories: What Julie Has Learned, What Julie Has Taught
Julie is our most recent foster dog. She’s only been with us about two weeks, still, we’ve learned so much about her and we’ve learned so much from her.
Within a few days, we discovered that Julie came to us with a few tricks. She sits, she shakes paws, she fetches, and she catches (especially treats). And although Julie is just a year old, she has a calm maturity about her. She’s pretty good on leash, and with training will only get better.
She’s not an active barker. In fact, for two days, we weren’t even sure she had a bark. She will let us know when someone’s approaching our door. And a couple of times she has barked at the doggy in the window, in other words, her reflection. What surprised me most about Julie’s bark is its deep resonance. For a dog her size, about 55 pounds, she packs a mighty bark.
So what has Julie taught me? Julie likes to exercise and as a young dog, she needs it. So, one thing she’s taught me is the joy of a winter walk, even on the coldest, snowiest days. And when we walk she’s taught me the value of silent observation. On our walks, Julie likes to stop and look deep into the woods. By following her gaze, I’ve found squirrels high in the trees and deer in the distance. Most often, I don’t see what Julie sees but watching her tilt her head and move one ear up, then the other is beautiful observation practice in itself.
Like all of our fosters, Julie has taught us the power of love and kindness to overcome fear and shyness and to build confidence. What we give our fosters and rescues through loving-kindness and patience returns to us tenfold in so many wonderful ways.
Julie’s eligible for adoption. Soon we will say our bittersweet goodbyes as she finds her loving forever home. Long after she’s gone through, her lessons and memories will remain.
Learn more about adopting Julie or one of the dozens of other wonderful dogs eligible for adoption at Hoof Woof Meow, the rescue we volunteer with.
Julie’s ears speak volumes. Susan Barzacchini photo.
