Puppy Love

By Jenise Jackson
Blog Content Contributor

Just in case you didn’t know, breakups suck. Whether your former partner dumps you, you dump them or the breakup is mutual, ending a relationship with someone you truly care about can be painful. Unfortunately, I know this all too well.  For the past few months, I’ve been living through that pain. Although I chose to hide my struggle to the best of my ability, I’ve hated living through it. But then my four-legged friend Gunner came into my life, and now my heart is full again.

I know it’s been said that getting a new pet after a breakup won’t fill any personal voids.

I think this speaks more to the people who are actively seeking a post-heartbreak fur buddy. Truth is, I wasn’t even looking for a Gunner. I like to think he found me, with my mother’s help of course. Just as I began to feel as though my ex would only be a thought of my past, I walked in my house one day to be greeted by a little German Shepard. As I bent down to interact with him, he gave me that little confused tilt of the head and then he walked over to snuggle up by feet. I knew then that I was in love and we were meant to be the best of friends.

I’ve had pets before, but I’ve never made such a quick connection with one like I have with Gunner. Our short time together means nothing because the bond we’ve built is everything. I’ve learned that when a dog is really in tune with you, they actually understand you. This is evident when I look at Gunner and I. This puppy just lights up whenever he sees me and I can’t help but to do the same. He loves sitting in my lap and resting his head on my leg while we watch Netflix. He wants to sleep right next to my bed and will whine if I walk away from him for too long. It’s like we were meant to have each other in life. Gunner has reminded me of the beauty of companionship and I wouldn’t trade that for the world.

I know Gunner probably doesn’t understand the impact he has already made in my life, but I am extremely grateful for him. He mended a broken heart just by being the lovable friend he is. Each day is a little bit of growth for the both of us and it has been my pleasure to be apart of his doggy life. I look forward to many more days with my little guy. I don’t know when I’ll be in another relationship, but I do know I’ll have Gunner’s love until then and that’s just fine with me.

Featured image by Jenise Jackson.