Uncommon Male Dogs: Stories of Unique Canines
Not all dogs fit into the ordinary categories. These unique male dogs stand out for their exceptional personalities, exceptional behaviors, and the love they instill in their families. One such remarkable dog was My Gordon, a purebred Gordon setter who became more than a pet to a family in Indianapolis. My Gordon’s journey is a testament to the special bond between man and dog, and how a unique canine can bring unparalleled joy and unconditional love.
The Introduction of My Gordon
My Gordon stumbled into the Indianapolis animal shelter in early 2000, where my father, who worked there, encountered him. The shelter was still a kill shelter at the time, and my father couldn't bear the thought of losing such a sweet dog. He decided to bring My Gordon home to my mother and me, my one-year-old self. The hope was that he would recover from his severe heartworm, which he suffered from so badly that he would cough and cough until pieces of lung would come up. My father initially hoped the foster stay would be temporary, but as it turned out, his stay went on much longer than expected.
My Gordon's Transformation
Upon arrival, My Gordon was anxious and depressed. He refused to eat unless my father sat with him in the kitchen, feeding him one bowl of food at a time. Slowly, he started to come out of his shell. Even before he became well, his playful nature led him to tolerate and even enjoy interactions with a one-year-old baby. As we grew older, my relationship with My Gordon became even stronger, and he developed into a perfect dog with minimal training.
When My Gordon was well, he always responded to spoken commands and knew several commands including sit, stay, shake, come, and heel. He was a certified professional in the field of puppy eyes, always eager to clean up after any messes made on his territory. He was protective, jumping in between his human and any perceived threat. His protective nature was evident when he guarded the farm's chickens by taking down offending possums and raccoons.
My Gordon's Daily Life
My Gordon's love for activities such as hiking and canoeing were notable. He had a bright yellow life jacket and loved spending time in nature. He also made sure that the family's yard was free of moles, and occasionally delivered eggs from the hens gently behind his canines, placing them carefully into a receiving hand without a scratch.
He was incredibly gentle with everyone, including the UPS man, who would carry treats just for My Gordon. His love was unwavering, and his actions spoke louder than words. He was a source of comfort, love, and joy, and it was evident that he cared as much about my well-being as I did about his.
Legacy and Memories
My Gordon passed away almost a decade ago, and his memory still shines as bright as the stars we loved to watch. While not everything about him seems unique, he was undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind dog. His extraordinary personality, unwavering love, and protective nature made him stand out. Even though time has passed, his memory continues to bring warmth to my heart and serves as a reminder of the unique bond between a dog and its human family.
For those seeking a unique male dog, stories like My Gordon's can serve as inspiration. Every dog has a story, and each one has something special to offer. Whether it's through their exceptional behavior or the love they demonstrate, unique male dogs like My Gordon can bring immense joy to their families. If there is a heaven, I know I'll see My Gordon there, and for that, I am grateful.