A man and his dog
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| Rich and Russell (he's a good boy) |
I typically use this column to highlight one or more of the stories published in each issue of the magazine. This time, I’m doing something different and won’t even try to make it pertinent to the magazine or to the industry. Please allow me some leeway in order to introduce you to the newest member of our family.
Russell, who will turn three this summer, is a labradoodle, which is a cross between a labrador retriever and a standard poodle. That particular breed of dog tends to be non-shedding, has an excellent temperament, is highly intelligent and eager to learn. They also don’t bark excessively.
We recently adopted Russell from a Chicago family. They did a wonderful job of raising him but decided it was becoming too difficult and expensive to care for him because Russell has been diagnosed with Addison’s disease. Also called hypoadrenocorticism, it’s a hormonal disorder caused by deficient production of adrenal gland hormones. Dogs with Addison’s disease can live long, happy lives if they are treated with the proper medication. In Russell’s case, he gets an injection once a month and takes a pill each day with his morning meal. My wife and I decided that we’re willing to take on this ongoing responsibility because, after meeting Russell, we soon realized that he’s a great dog.
A popular quote among dog owners says, “Everyone thinks they have the best dog. And none of them are wrong.” The quote has been turned into an internet meme and widely shared on social media. Unfortunately, the memes usually mispell the author’s name. Just to set the record straight, the quote was written by W.R. Pursche, author of “Lessons to Live by: The Canine Commandments.” It’s a simple, inspirational book that shows how we can all benefit from the wisdom of dogs.
A friend of mine recently adopted a dog from a pet rescue organization that specializes in finding homes for hard-to-place dogs. Many families are eager to take in a playful puppy, but it requires special patience and understanding to adopt an elderly dog or cat or a pet with a health problem. If you have an interest in adopting that type of pet, a Google search of “hard to place pets” will uncover options in your state or region. If adoption isn’t your thing, maybe you can make a donation to a local pet rescue or the Humane Society.
Julie and I considered adopting a dog from a pet rescue before we fell in love with Russell and opted for a private adoption. We don’t regret our decision. He’s a good boy.
Since you’ve been patient enough to read my story, I’d like to hear yours. Feel free to send me an email with a photo and story of your dog. Read the replies to this article here.
Rich Vurva
rvurva@directbusinessmedia.com
This article originally appeared in the May/June 2019 issue of Industrial Supply magazine. Copyright 2019, Direct Business Media.
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The March/April issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Joyce Lansdale and Vallen. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dirk Beveridge, Frank Hurtte, and David Kahle, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
