Story #12 of 60: When a Toy Slid Under the Door
As told by Carolyn Williams, Adopter & Donor
My husband was ready to look for another pet, but I still was not. Even so, I agreed to go and look. I should have known there was no way I would ever leave Anderson Humane without a furry companion.
As we walked down the aisles, looking at all the beautiful dogs, one moment stopped me in my tracks. From behind a solid kennel door, I could only see paws and a flat toy slowly sliding out underneath. That simple gesture said everything. It was as if she were saying she wanted a playmate, love, and a chance to play.
Her name was Natalia, or Tali as we now call her.
She was the only dog who did that. We could not see her face, only her paws and toy, and yet she completely captured my heart. I immediately turned to my husband and said, “We have to break her out of here.” I just knew she was meant to have space to run and play every day.
I did not realize it at the time, but that instinct made perfect sense. Tali is an Australian Blue Heeler Cattle Dog, a breed known for intelligence, energy, and a strong desire to work. She now has a big fenced-in backyard and a mom and dad who adore her.
Our lives are full of fun and joy again because of this beautiful girl. She keeps us laughing every day. Once, she roughhoused with my favorite blanket and somehow wrapped herself inside it like a burrito. She is smart, silly, and endlessly entertaining.
Adopting Tali reminded me how powerful a connection can be. I want every animal Anderson Humane cares for to experience the same love and happiness we have found with her.
Sometimes all it takes is a pair of paws, a toy, and one unforgettable moment.
Ready to start your own rescue story?
Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
