Presenting Clara

Let me introduce my very best friend.

This is Clara, my 8 year old lab/hound mix and the sweetest dog you'll ever meet.  I'm not biased or anything.

I got Clara last year from the local shelter.  I had been dying to get a dog for years and years, and the stars finally lined up where I was in a situation I could get her.  It was at a time where I was up and down, had gone off my antidepressants and was in the process of getting back on some (which takes about 6 weeks). I wasn't at my prime.

I walked into the shelter, pulled her out to walk around, and she knew right away that I was the one she was going home with.  She knew it before I did. Animal people will know what I'm talking about -- she chose me.  And my life has been different and better ever since.  It's the best thing ever to come home to a big doggy smile.

Clara's favorite thing ever is to be pet and pet and pet. But you have to do it just the right way or she'll squirm and glare at ya. She doesn't "play" much, but loves to sniff around, meet other dogs and follows me wherever I go.  Clara is super picky about the table food you give her and turns up her nose at a whole bunch of stuff other dogs would snarf up.  Her all time favorite is chicken.

There are studies that have been done on the impact of animals and mood, as well as organizations that send "therapy" animals out to disadvantaged people - nursing homes, hospitals.  Clara in fact is certified, she's just waiting on me to get out and visit :)

The case for animals (particularly dogs) as a source of healing and happiness:
Lowers blood pressure
Unconditional love and affection
Someone to take care of
Decreases feelings of loneliness
Forces you to get out of the house

When I'm having a down day, I sit and give this girl a hug.  I can always feel some of the stress melt off of me as I do.  I'll take her out for a walk, and not only does it get me moving and out of my mind a little, but it is so cute to see the things that she notices and what her little dog brain finds interesting.

So, message of the day...find a pet to love!  It has been one of the best decisions I've ever made.