I’d never owned a dog.
     Fact is, I didn’t much like dogs, and was convinced – because I work full-time -- that I couldn’t properly care for a dog. So I never pursued a pooch.

But then a call came that would change my life.
     My friend Joan called with news of 4-year old Springer Spaniel named Lillie who desperately needed a home. Her owner had died, and Lillie has nowhere to go.

And so, in October of 1999, I became the proud, albeit slightly reluctant, owner of Lillie.

I’m not sure what possessed me to say “Yes” when Joan asked if I would take Lillie, but looking back, I think I wanted something to care for, something to think about other than myself. I wanted another heartbeat in the house. And I’m so glad I followed my instincts!

 Now, 10 years later, I have become a dog-lover extraordinaire, a dog devotee. It’s incredible, in fact, that I don’t own one of those t-shirts that reads, “Love me, love my dog.”

Lillie was raised as a show dog by her breeder/owner for four years, so I took possession of a very well- mannered “lady.” She’s sweet, obedient, quiet, and cuddly. I couldn’t have asked for a better first dog. She even matches my piano! She’s black and white and shows up beautifully against the shiny black lacquer of the piano.

After a touch-and-go beginning (I didn’t even know how to walk a dog), Lillie and I settled into a cozy co-existence that could only be described as delightful. We share morning and evening walks, which are good for her (and me!), and we enjoy the same TV shows at night. I take her to the store, on trips, to family gatherings -- in fact everywhere I can -- and she makes friends for both of us all along the way. For a woman on her own, a dog is a great way to meet new friends!

As for the “It’s not fair to have a dog since I work full-time” stance, I found a solution. I offered a neighborhood kid the chance to make a little money by walking my dog every day after school. It helps him, and it relieves my guilt during the day. Like so many things in life, this problem that needed to be solved resulted in good things. I’ve gotten to know my neighbors and feel more connected with my community, as a result.

Lillie is the light of my life. And as she approaches her twilight years, I can’t help but think about the “inevitable.” But somehow, I know I’ll make sense of things, with Lillie’s bigger-than-life spirit guiding and inspiring me.

If you’re reluctant, as I once was, to get a pet, I encourage you to reconsider. Dog or cat, our furry friends (and feathered ones, too) can add an important dimension to our lives. They can open hearts and doors like nothing else. Give it some thought!

But now, I need to take Lillie out for a walk. It’s raining out – a gentle rain. But that doesn’t deter me. In fact, I feel fortunate that Lillie is here to give me a reason to be “in it” -- to experience, not just witness, the damp, rich air; the grassy fragrance; and the soft breeze. Lillie brings me closer to life. I love her for that . . . and so much more.