In 2009, on our way home from Chantilly, we saw an adoption event called “Howl-o-Ween” that AFH was participating in. I asked my husband to stop because I wanted to pet and say hello to the animals. It was nearing the end of the event and there was one puppy left and I knew he was my doggy soulmate. We adopted 5 month old Ozzie and kept the name because it fit him perfectly. Never having had a dog growing up, let alone a puppy, I read anything and everything I could about dogs and we participated in every dog-related activity we could. Obedience class (twice, lol), doggy playgroups, outings to dog-friendly restaurants. He soon became a socialized and well-mannered little boy. Ozzie was my best friend and got me through some very dark days such as losing a close relative, divorce, and even a temporary job-loss due to COVID-19. After being diagnosed with lymphoma and deteriorating rapidly, I made the very difficult decision to say goodbye to him on September 4, 2020. Dogs, like people, all have their own personalities and endearing qualities. I will adopt another dog one day, but my sweet little Ozzie will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m including the first picture I took of Ozzie when I brought him home in 2009 and one of the last ones taken recently.
