Moving can be a challenging experience, whether it’s down the street or across the globe. This National Dog Day, I want to express my gratitude for my dog, Thor, who has played a vital role in helping my husband and me adjust to our new home.
Like many millennials, finding an affordable first home is a daunting task these days. When my husband Brad and I finally discovered our dream home in a charming cul-de-sac community, it felt like something out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. While settling in was relatively easy, connecting with our neighbors proved to be more complicated.
Our neighborhood is filled with families, but as we don’t have any children yet, we found it challenging to bond over that commonality. However, we do have a furry “little one.” Our playful French Bulldog, Thor, became our social connector on just the second day of our move.
At nearly two years old, Thor has already built a lively personality. He quickly became a beloved participant in the poker nights held by friends in our former apartment building, often snagging a few tasty treats along the way. His outgoing nature has also kept us in touch with three of his littermate brothers, who share his playful spirit. But it was his grand introduction in our new neighborhood that truly showcased his charm.
Thor joyfully met all the children on our street, engaging in play bows and wiggling with excitement. It was heartwarming to see how thrilled he was when he got to join in a neighborhood baseball game, even if it was a given that he would end up running off with the ball. He even enjoyed a pup cup from the ice cream truck, only to later make a mess on a neighbor’s lawn—one of the quirks that come with owning a Frenchie.
Thanks to Thor, we have built connections within our community. His fearless approach to meeting new people and his vibrant personality have made it easier for us to get to know everyone around us—his exuberance is well-documented at the vet’s office.
This National Dog Day, let us celebrate the remarkable gifts our dogs give us, from companionship in lonely moments to unconditional love and, in Thor’s case, a strong sense of community.
Here’s to our four-legged companions!