Merlyn was adopted from the Toronto Humane Society last December Solstice, 2011. He could be considered a rescue dog - but in truth Merlyn has rescued me!
Life BD (Before Dog) was not particularly exciting. There were some days when the most conversation I had with anyone was when I ordered dim sum at Rol San in Chinatown. I tried knitting circles, astrology meetings, yoga classes and journal writing. I enjoyed all the "me" time, but you can only eat so much dim sum alone, knit so many scarves and rediscover yourself over the course of a few years.
Life AD (After Dog) has been a blast. Those first few weeks of winter weather were tough, as Merlyn learned that all business must be done outside, regardless. I would carry him in my arms, his long legs dangling while we raced a very long apartment hallway to the elevator and down to the back door.
Merlyn failed every puppy pre-school class until I finally figured out that he needed physical and mental stimulation throughout the entire day. Out we went for long off leash walks complete with intense play. Suddenly, he understood sit, stay and other basic commands.
Cherry Beach, Scarborough Bluffs, Humbar Bay Park and downtown ravines are our turf. Sun, rain, wind or cold - away Merlyn and I go. Every time he breaks into his graceful run my heart leaps and I'm with him in spirit. Other Toronto dog owners have become the best human company. Many a morning is spent sharing stories and trading tips. They are my special community of dog owning friends.
Lastly, Merlyn gives me unconditional, doggy love. He turns those big brown eyes on me, stretches up on those incredibly long legs and licks my face. I melt. Every time.
AD life is sweet. Merlyn visits the Spadina Community of Social Innovation a few afternoons during the week. Sometimes he is a perfect gentleman, other times a cranky soul. Best to ignore him for now. My hope is he gets used to the routine of the place and becomes part of the CSI community. Then you too can experience Merlyn at his doggy best.
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