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When Duchess passed away suddenly last month, I thought there was no way I could consider getting another dog anytime soon. My heart was so broken that I didn’t think I could muster the love that another animal would need just yet. Funny thing though, when you’re an animal person like me, missing one puts the rest of life off balance.

Our other dog, Bear, was experiencing separation anxiety from the loss. My kids were insistent upon another dog, not only to help them heal but to serve as a partner to Bear. I decided that Duchess wouldn’t want any of us to be lonely. It was then we began searching for a Boxer to rescue.

After much research, a few visits and a stroke of luck, we happened upon the perfect rescue for us. Her name was Gracie. We are Gracie’s 3rd home in her short life of only 5 months. Her first owner was an old man who bought her when his wife died. He wanted her for companionship, so that he wouldn’t have to be alone. Unfortunately, the association in his housing complex didn’t approve of the dog and gave him an ultimatum – either the dog would have to go or he would have to go. A very nice, single woman adopted Gracie from the old man with the best of intentions. Unfortunately, she worked a lot of hours and lived in an apartment. She felt Gracie would do better with a family that had more time and a yard for her to run in.

I swore I wasn’t going to get a puppy. I just couldn’t resist this face!

Bear was a bit apprehensive about his new pal, but after just a few short hours they were running around playing like they’d been missing each other all along. Gracie adjusted nicely to a big, noisy, chaotic house with kids and other animals she’d never even seen before. Per her Boxer nature, she has become my shadow. She has also brought laughter and love to our home along with her wagging nub. All is right with our world again. While no dog could ever replace Duchess, I’m quite sure she would approve of the one we picked to help us move on.  ♥ ♥ ♥