I feel so sorry for these people, they will never know the JOY they are missing. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to have taken in an adult or older dog have experienced blessings beyond words. I personally have had Dobermans since 1961 and have on two occasions tried to raise a puppy. FORGET IT! Give me the settled, laid back, all together, well mannered, grateful, devoted, loving adult Dobie, who knows what life is all about, who respects my authority, defends my property instead of chewing it to pieces, and is grateful for everything I do, and gives so much in return.
He may not be around as long as a young one, no matter. The quality of love he gives makes each day a special blessing. While the young Dobies are running the fence, barking, digging, chewing, playing, ignoring my call for silence, the older dogs stand quietly at my side, content just to be with me. Oh yes, I'll miss them when God decides he needs them more than I do, but the memories, and the lessons in love and devotion they are teaching me will live forever.
Reprinted with the kind permission of the author, Birdie F. Johnson.