A Family Dog

I never knew about rescue dogs. Not even sure how long that initiative has been in place. I do think it is an honorable act to rescue animals from cruelty and giving them a new start. What I do know is that the people who give rescue dogs a home are the most wonderful people I know.

In the case of Duke, who became a member of our extended family over 10’years ago, was given another chance for a good life. He was adopted by my son and daughter in law. My son was thinking that this German short hair could protect his wife when she went jogging. Turns out Duke had been so traumatized in his early years that most things scared him.

Over time and a lot of love Duke did guard his new family. The addition of children only added to his charm. His bark could sound ferocious but those of us who knew him knew better. Duke was s softie at heart.

Duke died this year living far longer then anyone ever imagined. I painted Duke’s picture sleeping beside his side kick Taz. He is greatly missed.