This blog was written by Global Gap Fellow Emma Senneville.
Dogs may seem like simple creatures, and in some respects they are. However, each one has its unique personality and quirks. They express themselves in different ways. No one dog has the same mannerisms or the same wants and needs. But here are some things that are universal with these awesome beings. They love unconditionally no matter the circumstances. They love food, they will do anything to get what they want (and it usually works). They love attention, they want to be around you and be in your presence. They are always a pain in the butt, but no matter what they do they are still our babies.
I had the chance of getting to know (very personally) 32 of these extraordinary animals. Each one’s personality shone bright and left me astonished. Let me give you some examples.
– Valiente (Val) was a handsome boy who unfortunately had both of his hind legs amputated due to a severe infection. But let me tell you, that did not stop him. He was the alpha of the house and had no lack of speed or energy. Val loves cuddles and pets and just wants attention 24/7 (if you took your hand off him for a millisecond he would cry).
– Joaquin (big floof/JoJo) is a big, white, fluffy goofball. He is a deaf boy, but that does not stop him from being one of the loudest in the house. He did not just bark, he awooed. He loves to play and if we started dancing in front of him he would start dancing with us and singing along to the tunes the best he could.
– Pikachu was raised during Covid, which affected her a lot. She’s nervous, but once you get to know her she’s an amazing dog. She loves pets, and when you stopped she would paw you and ask for
more (and I always obliged).
– Shaya is extremely shy and wary of people. But after some time at Colitas, when I would turn my back, I felt a presence appear behind me. She would be there and would immediately start licking my face. She just needed some time to trust you.
– Gloria is an outside dog who is always hiding, she is extremely wary and scared of people. But, when you came out with her food and called her name, she would appear and start dancing. We would take some extra food in our hands and bring it close to our bodies, she would come up to you and eat out of your hand. We did this to help her start trusting us. After a month or so of being there, I started noticing her playing with other dogs and sunbathing in the open instead of hiding which warmed my heart.
I wish I could go on and on about these amazing dogs. All of them have a permanent place in my heart forever and I will never forget any of them. They all deserve a forever home but I will tell you that Colitas Con Canas is already a great home for them. There, they get the absolute best care and all of the love and attention they could ask for. I love all of those goofballs with all of my heart and if you ever get the opportunity to meet any of them you’d say the same.