As I sit in this corner of the shelter, I watch the world go by through my dark, sad eyes. The hustle and bustle of people walking in and out, their laughter and joy filling the air, is a constant reminder of the life I yearn for but can’t seem to grasp. I hear the excited barks of other dogs as they greet visitors, wagging their tails in delight, hoping to catch someone’s attention. But here I am, sitting quietly, wishing I could be like them.
“I wish I could be like other dogs, receiving love from everyone.”
It’s a thought that lingers in my mind, haunting me. I see them being petted, embraced, and taken home. I see the joy on their faces when someone chooses them, the trust they have in their new humans. I can almost feel the warmth of that kind of love, but it always seems just out of reach. I often wonder what it would be like to feel the soft touch of a hand on my head, to hear someone whisper sweet words to me, to know that I am loved.
Every day, I watch as potential adopters come into the shelter, scanning the kennels for a dog to take home. They pass by without even glancing in my direction. I try to stand up, to make myself look as appealing as possible, but it’s as if they can’t see me at all. I wonder what they are looking for. Do they want a dog that can jump and play? Do they want a dog that can fetch a ball or go for long runs? I can’t do those things. My legs are weary, and my spirit feels heavy.
There’s a beautiful golden retriever just a few kennels down. I watch as he jumps excitedly, his tail wagging furiously, his eyes bright with hope. People flock to him, showering him with affection and praise. It’s heartwarming to see, yet it fills me with longing. I want that, too. I want to feel the warmth of a family who loves me, who sees me not just as a dog but as a companion, a friend.
I try to remain hopeful. There are moments when I catch a glimpse of a kind soul—a volunteer who comes in to feed us and clean our kennels. She often stops to pet the dogs who are more outgoing, and I wish she would notice me. I wish I could show her the love that lies inside me, the loyalty that’s just waiting to be unleashed. But I am shy, and my heart races when I think of approaching her.
Then there are the days when the shelter feels particularly heavy. The sounds of barking echo around me, but it only deepens my sense of loneliness. I think about what it would be like to have a cozy bed to curl up in, to have toys to play with, and to feel the joy of belonging. I imagine running through a park, chasing after a ball, and feeling the soft grass beneath my paws.
“I wish I could be like other dogs, receiving love from everyone.”
That’s my secret wish. I know it’s not impossible, but it feels so far away. I sometimes overhear the shelter staff talking about the dogs that have been there for a long time, and I wonder if I will ever get my chance. I can feel the weight of each passing day, each missed opportunity.
But even in the depths of my longing, I try to keep a spark of hope alive. I dream of the day when someone will see beyond my quiet demeanor, when they will look into my eyes and realize that I have so much love to give. I want to be a dog who brings joy, a dog who can comfort someone after a long day, a dog who can be a loyal friend.
As I lay down on my blanket, I close my eyes and imagine a warm home filled with laughter. I picture a family gathering around me, their hands reaching out to pet me, their voices filled with kindness. I wish I could be like other dogs, receiving love from everyone. And maybe, just maybe, one day that wish will come true. Until then, I will wait, holding onto the hope that the love I crave is out there, waiting for me, too.
