How This Touching Story Began
The newcomer finally decided that a dog could make a huge difference in his life. The dog would give him someone to rush home from work eager to see, someone to talk to. He would have someone to love. It was an easy decision for him to make.
As a visitor to the clean, no-kill shelter of a small college town, he was welcomed by very friendly people. They were eager to help him find the best fit possible. Their attitude was not surprising. It fit right in with the community behavior he had experienced thus far.
He wandered through the shelter, taking his time as he looked over the dogs in each of the pens. A large black Lab lying quietly in his pen easily caught his attention. The volunteer informed him that the Lab’s name was Reggie.

Black Lab Waiting To Be Chosen,
The man recalled seeing Reggie on the local news. They highlighted dogs from the shelter in an effort to increase their chances of being adopted.
He learned that many people responded to the news clip on Reggie. Several of them came to see Reggie but reportedly did “not look like Lab people”. I am not sure what that means,
Evidently, they thought this newcomer did look like a Lab person. They encouraged him to take Reggie home, along with his belongings. Reggie’s “things” consisted of a sleeping pad, bag of toys (mostly new tennis balls), his feeding and water bowls and a letter from his former owner.
Page Two
This Is The Part of The Touching Story Where You Need to Have Tissues Handy
Some Background For This Story
Page Three of the Touching Story
The man sat quietly for several moments reflecting on all he had just read. Finally, he spoke. When he called the dog by his real name, Tank, and asked him to “Come”, Tanks ears perked up. Tank leapt to his feet and he rushed to the man where he quickly sat before him.
His head was tilted and his eyes bright as he waitet to hear his name spoken once more. It had been months since he had heard his own name.
Every time Tank heard his name spoken, he swished his tail. His ears relaxed and his eyes became warmer. Even his posture changed and contentment appeared to flow over him.

Black Lab Ready To Play Some Serious Ball
And In Conclusion
This true and touching story had as happy an ending as possible under the circumstances. Not all dogs who lose their family are so fortunate, especially the older ones.
If you are considering adopting a dog, please keep your options open. Most people only look for a puppy or very young adult dog, thinking of what will be easier on themselves. Hopefully, a few of us will look for a dog that needs us the most.
If you are one of those who have adopted a dog more for their benefit than your own, please share your story with me. I love to read about those dogs and their new families. I don’t mind having to bring out the tissues.
If you want to know more about making arrangement for your fur babies when you can no longer care for them, check out this article.It includes very specific advice. https://happymutt.org/1492-2-hospice-care-for-man-and-dog/