Dogs of Del Mar: Rescuing Rescues

My yearning for a dog evolved slowly, but once I decided, I was suddenly flooded with choices: puppy or rescue? Big or small? Young or old? Which breed would truly fit my lifestyle and personality?

My carefully thought-out strategy unraveled the moment I met the first dog. I had spotted “Meatball,” an older Labrador mix already graying like me, on the Internet. I told myself I’d just meet her, get a feel for how it might go. But when she came straight to me and insisted we take a walk around the block, I was hooked. There was no backing out. “Meatie” and I began a happy three years together as loving roommates.

At first, we were both shy and a little nervous. But before long we were curled up on the couch watching TV. I talked to her as though she were human, and soon she began copying my actions—sometimes with hilarious results. Once, out of the corner of my eye, I caught her trying to mimic my yoga poses (though never downward dog).

Meatie was kind and courteous to most people and dogs we met, though she kept her guard up when someone gave her a reason to be cautious. She had a mind of her own, but she was usually open to negotiation. Of course, she was still a dog—so sometimes treats had to seal the deal.