Today is my birthday, and as I lie here in my kennel, surrounded by the familiar sounds of barking and the scent of dog food, I can’t help but feel a mixture of hope and longing. For so long, this shelter has been my home, a place of safety but also a reminder of everything I’ve lost. I’m a simple dog with a fluffy coat and big brown eyes, but deep inside, I have dreams just like any other. Today, I’m wishing with all my heart that I won’t be at the shelter anymore.
I remember the day I arrived here. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was scared and shivering. I had been wandering the streets, lost and alone, searching for food and a warm place to sleep. The kind people at the shelter found me and brought me in. They fed me, gave me a warm bed, and even bathed me. I was grateful, but every day that passes feels like a reminder that I don’t belong here. I see other dogs come and go, finding their forever homes, and I can’t help but wonder when it will be my turn.
Each morning, the staff comes to feed us, and I wag my tail excitedly, hoping one of them will notice me. I’ve tried my best to be the goodest boy—playing fetch, doing tricks, and giving the sweetest puppy eyes. But even with my best efforts, I remain just another dog waiting for adoption. I dream of a family that will love me, take me on adventures, and give me a place to call my own.
Today, as I celebrate my birthday in this kennel, I think about what it would be like to have a family. I imagine running through a backyard, chasing butterflies, and feeling the sun warm my fur. I picture cozy nights curled up on the couch, listening to the sound of my human’s laughter. The thought brings a smile to my face, even as I hear the other dogs barking, each of them with their own dreams.
At the shelter, we have a small celebration for birthdays. The staff brings out a special treat—a dog-friendly cake made of peanut butter and pumpkin. It’s a delicious way to celebrate, but deep down, I can’t shake the feeling that I should be celebrating with my own family. As I gobble up my cake, I make a wish. I close my eyes tightly and think, “Please let today be the day I find my forever home.”
As the day goes on, I hear the door open. My heart races as new people walk in. They look around, and for a moment, I feel a spark of hope. Could one of them be my new family? I sit up straighter, wagging my tail and barking gently to catch their attention. I want them to see me—the goofy, loving dog who just wants a chance to be loved. I give my best puppy eyes, hoping to make a connection.
But as the minutes pass, I see them move on, visiting other dogs. My heart sinks a little, but I remind myself that every day brings new opportunities. Maybe tomorrow will be different. Maybe one of these visitors will come back and choose me. I have to believe that my birthday wish can come true.
As night falls and the shelter quiets down, I curl up in my bed, staring at the stars through the small window. I can still taste the sweetness of the cake, but I also feel the ache of waiting. I long for a home where I can feel safe and loved, where I can share my life with someone special. Today was my birthday, and I hope that next year, I will celebrate it in a warm home, surrounded by family.
For now, I’ll keep dreaming, keep hoping, and keep being the best dog I can be. I know that one day, I will find my forever home, and I won’t have to spend my birthday in the shelter anymore. Until then, I’ll wait, with love in my heart and hope in my eyes.
