What I've Learned from Boarding Dogs

Warning:  This post is full of extremely cute photos.  When viewed in one sitting, these photos may cause ear-to-ear grinning, an overwhelming urge to "awww...", even spontaneous combustion from Cuteness Overload.  Please proceed with caution and prepare to smile.

I never expected to love this job so much.  Sure, I thought it would be fun - anyplace that pays you to spend time with animals is bound to be!  But I didn't know I would end up enjoying being at work just as much as being at home or with family.  I didn't know that although there certainly is quite a bit of poop-scooping, drool-mopping, and ear-plugging....there is also a happiness I have found in boarding dogs that I have never quite felt before.

I didn't know that these dogs would soon come to win my heart.

Instead of cold metal and cement, our boarding facility has suite-like rooms with cameras in each one.  There is no smell except a hint of Windex, and we give our pups baths in a whirlpool tub.  And rather than sitting behind bars alone all day, we play matchmaker, figuring out which dogs play well with others; the dogs run around and play to their heart's content.  These dogs have taught me that although time alone can be fun, life is always better when you have a friend.

They have taught me the importance of play, of taking time out of every day to just enjoy yourself.

Also, naps.  Naps are important, too. ;)

I have learned many things about many different breeds, and I've also learned that there are quite a few breed stereotypes that have some truth to them:  Beagles can often be found scavenging for food, Great Pyrenees can - it's true! - be quite stubborn, and little white dogs, yes, are sometimes rather yippy...but oh my gosh, are they cute:

 

Our doggie guests have taught me that a puppy kiss can cure nearly any ailment, and that no matter how fun a vacation is, you should still always be excited to return home.  I've learned that the shyest dogs who require a little time and patience are often the sweetest and the most cuddly.

And - though I've known this for a while now - I've learned that dogs are perhaps the most loyal, loving, and comforting companions a person can have.  I'm so thankful for all of our amazing guests;  I truly love them like they're my own <3

Which one of these dogs do you think is the most adorable? ;)  Hard to choose, right?!