Maddie fits right in!
When my little sister began middle school in Orlando, Fla., last year, she wanted a puppy to keep her company when she got home in the afternoon. My family started searching for the perfect companion for Jennifer and our family. We spent several week visiting shelters, but no puppy really clicked with all of us – until we met Maddie.
When Jennifer and Maddie met, it was puppy love at first sight. We almost didn’t see the all-black border collie mix in the back of a pen at the animal shelter, but when she emerged from the shadows, Jennifer thought she was beautiful and wanted to play with her. After playing with “the black dog” for a few minutes, we had to have her.
About 3 years old, Maddie had been a regular at the shelter. Two other families had adopted her and sent her back within a few weeks, leaving us slightly concerned when we took her home. We sensed she had issues with past owners and other dogs when we tried to walk her in the neighborhood or leave her at home. After several weeks of adjusting and lots of patience and love, Maddie felt right at home. We took her to “Puppy School” at Petsmart every Saturday morning, and she graduated in a few weeks, complete with graduation cap.
Although she seems overprotective at times (it’s a border collie thing, we’ve learned), Maddie is truly the best companion for our family. She loves belly rubs and snuggling, and she looks forward to climbing into our laps for American Idol at night. She’s not happy unless everyone in the family is in the same room, and she’s not content unless one of us is petting her constantly. She loves to jump in the pool on sunny days and chase squirrels from under our lanai. She loves to listen to music on long car rides to Alabama to visit family, and she and our cousin’s dog are best friends. She’s very protective of my sister, and she’s one of my best friends. She sees my mom as her mom and my dad as her dad.
Maddie is truly a member of our family, and she surprises us every day with something new. I’m sure there are plenty more Maddies out there, and I hope people give them a chance. With lots of love, patience and dedication, any puppy can become one of the most loving members of your family.
Jennifer and Maddie snuggling on the couch
Maddie's first day with her new family!
