Cupid's Story

I'm writing to share my adoption success story with you.

I went to the Utah Humane Society last November with a friend who wanted to adopt a dog. That day changed my life, because that's when I met Cupid, a shy little Lhasa Apso mix. So even though I am allergic to dogs, I took him home for a one-week trial. Aside from the occasional sneeze, I had no allergy symptoms. (Cupid is a non-shedding dog.) Otherwise, it was a scary week, because I've never owned a dog before and everything was new to me. More than once, I thought I should bring him back so he could go to someone who was more dog-savvy, more knowledgeable.

But I looked into his eyes and knew he'd never have an owner who loved him more.

So I read about dogs. A lot. My friend (who also adopted a dog that day and has had dogs all her life) helped me when I felt unequal to the challenge. And Cupid, bless him, showed me every day how grateful he was to be with me. That made the whole thing worthwhile.

Over time, I felt more comfortable and confident as a dog owner. I give him love, food, toys, and opportunity for exercise. But what he gives me in return is so much more. I look forward to being covered with kisses when I return home from work. I like to sit outside in the sun and let him sit in my lap. I cheer for his achievements. He's a beautiful boy.

I still don't know everything about dogs. And Cupid is still shy. But I continue to read and learn and socialize him to be more comfortable with new situations. This month, he attended a birthday party with more than 30 guests and did great!

I added a second dog to the family a few months ago. The two dogs get along well, and I love them both. But Cupid has a special place in my heart; he was my first dog, and the Utah Humane Society kept him safe until I could find him.

-Thanks, Alyssa