Tags
dog companions, George Bailey, Havanese, It's a Wonderful Life, James Stewart, Operation Rescue, Poodle, rescue dogs, Shih Tzu
Three weeks ago, my wife Dallis and I went to visit a local dog rescue organization called Operation Rescue. We had decided we were ready to have the companionship of a dog again in our home after nearly a year since the death of Sadie, our beloved Pomeranian.
We met a variety of dogs and interacted with them. However, the little guy pictured here grabbed at our heart strings from the moment we met him. He was calm, affectionate, and trusting, amazing attributes given his history. He had been found on the streets of our city not in good shape. The County Shelter took him in for a short time in case his owners came looking for him. After a few weeks he was scheduled for euthanasia. That’s when Operation Rescue came to the shelter and rescued him, among others.
We have enjoyed three weeks with our boy, whom we have named Bailey in honor of the character George Bailey played by Jimmy Stewart in the holiday favorite “It’s A Wonderful Life.” George Bailey needed to understand the difference his life made to those around him. I can assure you that the little Bailey who now runs around our house is making a difference to us.
Based on the best guesses of the rescue group and our vet’s office, he is a mix of Miniature Poodle and perhaps Shih Tzu (based on his ear coloring) and/or Havanese. We are pretty sure he is also part circus acrobat, high jumper, sprinter, therapist, and comedian!
Dogs invite us into a world where “now” matters!
Some of us need that reminder more than others.
Words (c) 2013 Mark Lloyd Richardson
Photo (c) 2013 Dallis Day Richardson
dreamprayact 
I rescued my Elsie last March and she has been rescuing me every day since! Dogs remind us not to take ourselves too seriously, that we are loved beyond what we deserve, and that all of God’s creation is indeed, good. Thanks for your post!
Thanks, Sharon. Enjoy every day with Elsie! What a blessing our dogs are to us.
Our rescue dog Dixie (from Alabama), who we’ve had for about 4 years, is the light of our lives! We tease that she won the doggie lottery, as she gets to go to work with my husband everyday … but and I think Bailey must have had a winning ticket, too!
That’s pretty cool that Dixie gets to go to work with your husband. I’m sure she likes being with her people. Bailey mostly hangs out at home with Dallis, but he has been to work with me too! He’s a great pal to have around — always good for a laugh!
Congratulations on your new family member. What a special and adorable little guy!!
Thank you so much. We agree he is adorable.
This is wonderful news Mark & Dallis! Congratulations on your newly expanded family. And what a great name, with a great story. May you all enjoy many wonderful years together. And may I add of just how much joy my rescued dog has added to my life. She had been neglected and abused, and many would think it was me who saved her life… but I often wonder about how she has helped save my life. Such is the love and lessons from dogs, where NOW indeed is everything. Blessings, Gina
Thanks, Gina. We understand what you mean when you say that a dog can help save us. Bailey brings a lot of light and laughter into our daily lives just by being himself. Peace to you, Mark
Thanks for sharing our joy…you said it all so well. We are truly blessed to have found Bailey! In three short weeks he has expanded our lives exponentially, even if there are still “accidents” on occasion!
What accidents?
Cute little dog! Thanks for sharing this.
Thank you for stopping by and enjoying him.
Oh Bless! Thats a lovely photo and story. He looks chuffed to bits to be with you and very aware that he is “one of the family”. I can see immediately why he grabbed your hearts!
Thanks, Stephanie. I had to look up “chuffed to bits,” but I assumed it was a good thing. Sure enough, we are all pleased to have found one another! Blessings, Mark
What’s that saying? “Someday I hope to be the person my dog thinks I am.” Congrats on your new family member!
Thank you, Barbara. We are quite happy to have found this little guy who brings us such joy. Mark