Dog Is My Copilot
As we make our way home after a long days work, my trusted companion beside me, I take stock in the day and thank the universe for all of the new friends we met. And as we drive in silence, she sleeps; dreaming of belly rubs and the smiles on childrens faces. She feels your sorrow when you are sad because of where she came from. If she could talk she would ask you not to be sad but to rejoice that she has had the opportunity to know life as just a dog. To know the joy of digging a hole deeper than she is big, to learn the the middle of Mom’s bed is the best place to sleep and to know that children are her favorite people because they are her size, their hugs are warm and wonderful and of course, because many of them smell like food. I think about how you listen as I tell you her story, show you are tattooed ear, her battle wound from a previous life. I too, do not want you to be sad for her, I want you to tell your friends about her and of the other 64,000 dogs used in research annually. Each and every one can go on to live life outside the lab if given the chance. They too can be a faithful companion and trusted friend.
Each day with her is a blessing and I am honored that she chose me. Her indomitable spirit is what guides us as we travel to spread the word about the need for sanctuary for all laboratory animals. She is my ever faithful, ever hungry and ever courageous little girl… Yes, dog is my copilot.
Copilot Juno – September 2013