I will start off by saying that I am lover of all animals and always have been. I have always had a special place in my heart for animals no matter what kind or where they came from. So, my decision to adopt a dog in college was a no brainer.

I was looking for a travel companion, a cuddle buddy, an anxiety reliever, and a best bud. Boy did I get more than I hoped for.

My rescue pup, Lola, is a 6 year old sweetheart who had been moved around from shelter to shelter for longer than anyone really knew. She has high anxiety around other pups which made shelter life extremely stressful for her. She is the quirkiest dog I have ever met and is constantly wagging her tail (for real it does not stop wagging unless she is sleeping). She loves head scratches, and if I take my hand away for two seconds she will nudge my arm until I start again.

While I may have rescued this sweet girl out of a stressful environment, it was really her who saved me.

1. She taught me that it will be ok.

Arguably, the first six years of her life have been extremely rough, and she has gone through more than I can imagine. Yet, she is so full of joy every single day. She has taught me that no matter what you go through, it's going to be ok.

2. She's taught me to love myself.

College is hard. Life is hard. Days are rough. There are times when I don't feel like I am good enough, we all do. But, I come home and she makes me feel like I am the most special person in the world. She jumps for joy, she gives me the biggest smile, and endless kisses. No matter what went on that day, I can guarantee she will put a smile on my face. She teaches me to love myself because she loves me.

3. She is the best movie companion.

With such busy schedules, watching movies with my roommates and finding a time when everyone is available seems like an impossible task. Sometimes the best cure to a stressful week is to curl up under the covers and watch a movie with my best bud. Lola is always down to watch a movie no matter what day of the week it is.

4. She's my adventure companion.

Before Lola, I would always say I was going to go on a run or go walk the nature trails at the local park, but would never actually do it. With her by my side, I feel safe enough to go do those things, and we both get a nice workout while we're at it.

5. She's my constant.

Change can be rough, but it happens constantly. No matter how many things are thrown at me, I know I can rely on her to always be by my side and never let go. We have an unbreakable bond that I know will never be lost.

6. She made me whole.

Most of all, she filled a hole I didn't know I was missing. She makes me smile, makes me laugh, and makes me feel complete.