Donner Dog

Donner Dog!

A few days before Christmas break, when I was in the eighth grade, my dad surprised me by picking me up from school. I was unsure where he was taking me, but we ended up at the vet.

My dad told me that he and Mom had a surprise for me. My heart was beating with anticipation of what was to come. My whole body was like jumping beans; I couldn't stand still. We entered the noisy vet’s office and went into a room. I can still recall that moment when the vet brought my puppy. He put the pup down, and it was like I was the flower and he was the bee. He was by my side, which made me feel special. I was speechless, admiring his chocolate brown eyes, which were covered by his locks of fur. It was truly love at first sight. The small pooch came right up to me and gave me sweet doggie kisses. He made my heart lurch with an overwhelming happiness. It was like having my own new baby to love. A perfect dog for me, a Shih Tzu! I wanted his name to reflect the holidays. So I came up with Donner, like the reindeer. Perfect!

From that point on, he was and still is my buddy. He is always there to snuggle with or to hop in the car with us. Donner has been a joy not only in my life but for everyone else as well.

Carlie Herrick lives, writes, and dog snuggles in Washington state.

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