I am not a dog owner. Some would say I’m not qualified to write this, but I beg to differ.
Because I have endured many dog-less years, my affections for dogs have only grown.
I can no longer contain my desperate need for a pup of my own.

I am the girl who casually strikes up faux conversation for the soul purpose of petting a stranger’s dog.
I am the girl who names puppies at the pet store, only to make a scene when I can’t take them home.
I am the girl who wants all the puppies all to myself. No exceptions.
I am the girl who makes eye contact not with the owner, but rather, their pup.
I smile at the dog, not the person walking it.
I’m more excited to hang out with my friends’ dogs than my friends.
I’m really sorry, friends.
I secretly revel in the fantasy that maybe, one day, one dog will unleash themselves and pick me over their owner.
Is that bad?
I don’t know, but I don’t really care.
I want to be their human. ME!

I just really want a dog.
Correction: I want all the dogs.
I want short dogs and tall dogs and dogs with skinny legs and dogs with stubby legs.
I want fluffy dogs and short-haired dogs; I would even accept bald dogs.
I want big dogs and little dogs, puppies and the great-great grandparents of the puppies.

In all honesty, though, everyone needs a dog. There is no love like a dog’s love. There is no loyalty like that of man’s best friend. There is no greater admiration than a dog to his owner.

Friends, if you are fortunate enough to have a dog of your own, please, please never take them for granted. Love them, pet them, snuggle them, walk them, enjoy them.

There is no love like the love of a dog.

No fish, hamster, lizard, cat (as fabulous and amazing as cats are) can love you like your dog can.

You will never find a companion more loyal than the one you find in your dog.

Keep them close.

Also, if you ever need a dog sitter…