Mandy - July 2005 Canine Angel of the Month

My father was a professional trainer of German Shepherds and Labradors, so I grew up with dogs. Over the years, I was blessed with many dog and cat companions in my home, but later on in life I developed life-threatening allergic reactions to cats. The two cat companions my husband and I shared had to be given up. We reluctantly offered them to a wonderful senior care center, but it broke our hearts to let them go. Eventually, I suggested to my husband that we might get a dog. My husband never had a dog before, but was open to the idea. Nearing retirement, I did some research and decided I would like to adopt a Shih Tzu. Then, I suffered an accident, breaking my shoulder and arm. Having just left my work friends of over 10 years, and being injured, I was feeling very depressed. Then Mandy entered my life. My husband fell in love, as did I, with this adorable pup, in about two minutes. Mandy was the perfect antidote to my depression and recovery, and her loving nature has even drawn my husband and I closer together. We are so fortunate to have such a spirited dog. Mandy waits by the door for my husband to come home each night, and immediately begins pulling out his shoe strings from both shoes, until both laces are completely removed. Her quirky and playful ways are a joy to us each and every day. We wish everyone could have a dog like Mandy. Connie C.