ASK AN ANIMAL EXPERTQ: My mother is lonely, and I’m thinking of adopting a dog from the Humane Society to keep her company. She’s 85 years old and in good health and loves animals. Is this a good idea?A: It’s amazing how many people fail to ask themselves this simple question before they get an animal. Don’t forget that animals may be with you from 10 to 20 years. Are you willing to take on your mother’s dog if it outlasts her?– Guy Bilyeu, Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga
My daughter, Kacee Nazor, adopted a mixed-breed dog named Emmy at the McKamey Animal Care and Adoption Center about 18 months ago. She wanted her daughter, Tilleigh, to have a dog, just the way she always had dogs (and cats) when she was growing up.
Emmy was 8 months old at the time and had been returned to the shelter from someone who had adopted her for a short period. My daughter was not given a reason why she was returned. But Emmy quickly tugged at my daughter’s heartstrings. Tilleigh had bumped her head and was crying. Emmy immediately ran to her and gave her kisses (licks, actually).
Emmy is my granddaughter’s No. 1 playmate. The dog is by her side when she’s reading, working puzzles, taking naps or playing outside. My granddaughter snuggles up to the dog when watching TV.
My granddaughter is kind and affectionate to the dog, traits that easily carry over to her treatment of people. Tilleigh is as protective of Emmy as Emmy is of her. It’s a companionship that makes you realize why dogs are known as man’s best friend.