“Dogs have given us their absolute all. We are the center of their universe. We are the focus of their love and faith and trust. They serve us in return for scraps. It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made. " ~Roger Caras

I’ve come to realize over time that many people simply do not understand how anyone can form a true and loving bond with an animal. Being me, I simply can’t understand how you could not be grateful for such an amazing gift. I consider myself lucky that so many animals have befriended me over the years, but none of these connections are quite like the dogs in my life.

There is something about their willingness to give themselves heart and soul to you; so trusting, so generous in their love and loyalty. Dogs speak to me with their eyes and gestures of a love, faith and devotion so strong that it awes me… This particular canine friend has seen me through some of the darkest days I’ve experienced. Her favorite spot is curled against my legs, warming my feet, and I instantly feel better for having her silent company. My husband once said, “If Rogue could speak Human, she would sing songs about you.” I looked down at her loving brown eyes and smiled… “That’s fair.” I said, “If I could speak her language, I’d sing songs about her too.” Her happily thumping tail assured me that she understood exactly what I was saying. Here is my beloved Rogue waiting at the gate for me during one of our long rambles through the no leash area at Mingo Creek County Park in Pennsylvania, Spring 2009.