I remember the first time I saw you. I wanted a boxer, we were looking on a boxer rescue site, and I didn’t know I was going to look at a bulldog. I walked into that pet store, saw your huge body, and all those nipples. I shook my head and said no way. We stood there and talked to the foster mother and you managed to nuzzle your head into my right hand. I had to smile and kept shaking my head. On the car ride home -which you are named for (Shelby Mustang) -I could feel my right hand, the sensation was still lingering. I had my arms folded the whole car ride home. To my surprise, we ended up rescuing you. Well that was about 5 years ago. You have been my best friend since. Its hard to write this with tears in my eyes. I’m so glad you have never seen me drink alcohol. I talk about you at meetings and how grateful I am to have you in my recovery. I could never imagine walking outdoors before I had you. You got me out of the house and walking further and further each day–also becoming part of my new favorite hobby of picking up coins on the ground. The way you love everyone and lay your head on their laps still makes me smile so big. You lay in the funniest positions and are so silly. I love that you don’t bark. You also know when I’m not paying attention and linger a little longer on spots on our walks. We get honked at almost every walk we take. Someone always compliments us and asks about you everywhere we go. Two peas in a pod. With my height and your broad chest and big lean body we are quite an attraction. I can’t thank you enough for knowing when I’m in pain, being nice to all my friends, and being so excited to see me when I get home. I just wanted you to know, before I got you I was beat down, at my rock bottom, and hopeless. I had someone to take care of, someone that depends on me, and someone to love me. I have my bracelet I wear that says my dog loves me when no one else does. It’s just me and you, and I’m so glad God brought you into my life at just the right time.
I love you always
Your mom, Carrie
Breed: American Bulldog
Posted by Carrie Oliver
