My dog, Chipotle, is a greyhound that was rescued from a race track in Massachusetts. On Chipotle’s 100th race, her hind leg fractured from the run. Chipotle’s handlers kept racing her – perhaps knowing that she would finish last and thus betting on the other dogs. 17 races later, the fractured leg shattered and Chipotle collapsed on the track.
Luckily for Chipotle, a greyhound rescue organization had a foster home for Chipotle and a volunteer veterinarian to rehabilitate her. The rescue group quickly intervened to save Chipotle’s life. Once Chipotle’s cast was removed, she was placed with me. I like to say that Chipotle’s accident on the track was her “lucky break” – though I’m quite certain that I’m the lucky one.
Here’s what has impressed me the most: Chipotle doesn’t hold her past experiences against the life she now lives. Despite being beat, caged 23 hours a day and abused, Chipotle is the most gentle, loving spirit that you could ever meet.
I immediately think of people I know that require decades of therapy for much less traumatic experiences. Medication. Doctors. Baggage. But not with Chipotle.
It’s no secret that I think we can learn a lot from our dogs. But Chipotle’s heart – and her capacity to forgive, move on and love – is truly one of my life’s greatest treasures.
July 27, 2010 at 2:53 pm
A wonderful blog, Davey… your dog is most fortunate in having gotten a wonderful owner such as you. My Boston terrier, Maggie, says “arf” to her.
July 27, 2010 at 4:42 pm
Davide, why don’t you f**k off into some far corner of cyberspace. Your involved in discussions with differing point of views all the time, but I have one and it’s a “bitch fight”. You’re a p***y Davide and if your a sisters are as f****d up as you are I don’t want to be compared to them … Go fight a fire or whatever the f**k it is that your s**t job involves … Lol
July 27, 2010 at 5:29 pm
I totally agree and feel the same way as you. As a proud owner of a dog from a shelter for the last 2 years, there is nothing that brings a smile to my face more than that little pooch that waits for me at home.
July 27, 2010 at 8:36 pm
Dogs, in fact animals of most species, are very resilient. MUCH more so than many humans. I remember, we once had a cat that was dying of cancer. The very last day of her life, she dragged herself across the yard, curled up in her favorite spot in the garden, and just purred. Animals don’t dwell on their misfortunes, they don’t care if you’re having a bad hair day, they just LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY. We have A LOT to learn from them!!
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