Today, October 1st, is National Black Dog Day. Seriously. I thought it was a joke when I was first introduced to it. But, after I did a little research, I learned that it is in fact legit. Did you know that black dogs are the least adoptable pets in shelters because of their color? I was appalled to learn that fact. According to its website, Black Dog Day black dogs are overlooked because of stigmas, such as:
- The color black is evil (the same stigma that cats have),
- Black dogs do not show up as well in photographs as muti-colored or light colored dogs and
- Black dogs look scary and intimidating because you cannot see their facial expressions as easily, etc.
Here’s the worst part, black dogs are easily overlooked when people are searching for a new dog and the first to be euthanized in overcrowded conditions. Ohhhh that makes my tummy turn inside out.
I have had two black dogs in my life, both rescues. They have both been the biggest and brightest Silver Linings in my life, especially through the most difficult of circumstances.
For new readers, Buzz is a “career redirected” guide dog from Leader Dogs for the Blind.“Career redirected” is a wonderful way of saying that despite certain disabilities, Buzz is not longer able to stay in the Leader Dog program. (He used to get ear infections with enough consistency that it became unmanageable to the person he was servicing.) Buzz’s most recent job assignment was servicing a man in inner-city Detroit. He was terrific at his job and if it were not for Buzz’s disability, he would still be living and working in Detroit.
We adopted him between my double mastectomy and beginning chemo. Many readers asked: “Are you F-bomb CRAZY? A new dog between surgery and chemotherapy? WTF?” Yes, it may have seemed like a nutty decision at the time, but it was the best, most wonderful decision we could have made at that point in our lives. There is nothing better than four-legged love and boy oh boy did we get it in spades! As I type this, he is snuggled up right next to me with his head on my lap.
In case you are wondering, he is now ROCKING retirement in Santa Barbara. He goes outside everyday to sun himself, sits in the pool and plays in our backyard. In honor of this day, I thought that I’d share more photos of my beloved Buzz.
We have tons of bunnies in our yard. Buzz could care less. He is far more interested in his next meal or wading in the pool!
Buzz is the consummate hugger and smoocher! Blue Caleel took this photo.
When I travel for speaking engagements, Buzz is always with me. Elizabeth Messina took this photo.
Because Buzz was a seeing eye dog, this is where he sits in the car.
Buzz is quite adorable! His face is warm and friendly and his eyes say “old soul” to me. You’re lucky to have him in your life. What a sweetie!
Hollye, thanks you for coming to College Station to speak at the breast cancer luncheon. I have my DVR set to record you and Robin Roberts on GMA tomorrow!
I’m not a breast cancer survivor, but a cancer survivor nonetheless. I could relate to some of your stories. I pray you continue to do well.
Labradorable !
You always look so lovable and happy with Buzz ,tell us about your other lovable four legged fur ball.
Thank you!
YES! YES! YES! xxx
He is one GUAPO, GUAPO, GUAPO furry tenant of your heart.
xxx
Thanks, Isa! Love your pup! xx
You and Buzz are lucky to have found each other! Leader Dogs for the Blind happens to be about 5 miles from my home in Troy, Michigan. They have been an outstanding pillar in our community since I can remember. It is so cool to see them training the dogs in the local towns and malls. My neighbor is a volunteer for them. Thank you so much for giving Buzz a second chance. You are both an inspiration!
How amazing, Suzy. We love love love Leader Dogs for the Blind! They are amazing! …actually, it was Buzz who gave me a major second chance. He is laying on my feet as I type. I love him so much!
Seriously? “Black dogs are oppressed” Yeah, those evil white-furred dogs have been holding down the black-furred dogs for too long now!
I didn’t come up with the day, just decided to celebrate it. 🙂
I too have heard about the black dog stigma. As the “owner” of two rescued black dog sweeties, I am quite sensitive to this issue. Both could be considered dangerous dogs by some insurance companies but they are “officially” mixed breeds.