Penny

Kay and Penny

From a child to an adult, I grew knowing, believing, and experiencing the love, respect, and loyalty a dog can bring into an individual's life. I believe, six and a half years ago, my Boxer, Penny, now seven and a half, changed my life in a way for me to realize no matter how my day begins or ends, overnight, whether they be happy ones, sad ones, angry ones, or just down and out emotional ones, a dog can, and will change your life experiences into a comfort zone.

In 2002, we brought home a six-week-old Boxer, and named her, Penny. My husband worked third shift, and everyday at noon, he and Penny had a wrestling match. Sometimes, it felt like my bedroom was crashing own through my kitchen ceiling as their playtime intensified upstairs. Then the bedroom door would open, sending Penny downstairs, so Daddy could catch some sleep for his evening shift.

Entering into the year of 2003, my husband, at age 55, passed away suddenly of a massive heart attack. Not only was our family in their own shock and trauma, but as I watched Penny for two months lay at the bottom of the staircase, looking up with her sad, dark eyes, whimpering softly did I then realize she was also feeling pain, confusion, and alone, and she needed me as much as I needed her.

My life then changed from a stay-at-home wife, and mother to waking up early with Penny curled up on the sofa by my feet, and going out into the fast-paced world of today. With a great neighbor, a best friend, and a terrific brother-in-law to look after Penny, I started my day with a prayer, and a good-bye to my now other half. Knowing she would be looked after, I began my day, and when returning home in the evening, no matter what happened that day, I could let my emotions out to the one that has been physically and mentally by my side throughout all the changes we both endured.

As Penny watches out the kitchen window, and listens for my key to unlock the door, I can always be assured of a greeting of love, respect, and loyalty from her big brown eyes and expect nothing in return, except to have a healthy, clean, and loving home.