Longing for Home

This wonderful Dalmatian is Buddy (hi Buddy!).

Why can't you see Buddy's face? Because he's looking for his owners. Buddy is an older dog, and he's been coming here for a number of years. He's always been good-natured and happy (his owners are pretty great too!).

This Spring, Buddy suffered a major trauma. While peacefully hanging out in his own backyard, he was attacked by three stray dogs. (For some reason, this makes me think of West Side Story, but I'm probably off base with that because Buddy would never belong to any gang of any kind.)

Since that time, Buddy has not liked coming to the kennel as much. No matter how much attention I pay him and keep him away from the other dogs, I swear he is having flashbacks of 'Nam. He's anxious much of the time he's here.

When I take him out for walks, he sniffs a little, maybe politely pees on a busy. But mainly he is looking for his ride home. Even when I sit and just scratch behind his ears, I know he's wishing he was elsewhere. Buddy loves his owners and wants to be with them. He knows not only will they love him no matter what, they will caref for him if he is hurt.

There are times when I long for that Perfect Home as well. It's good to know someone has your back and will be your Defender and Protector, as well as assure you of their Perfect Love.

When do you experience homesickness? What do you long for most?