As many of you may know, I live in the country on a acreage…but close to a city. A place where many people dump their unwanted pets.

This week “Shug” an Australian Cattle Dog, came into our lives. At first we just thought he was a runaway. He had a nice collar and a 2007 rabies tag…so I called the local animal control and they gave me the first name of the owner, the name of the dog, his breed, and his age (9 months). I called the number, got a recording and left a message.

After leaving 4 messages (with no return call) I called the vet who did the rabies vaccination. I thought perhaps the owners had moved (the address Animal Control had given was 15 miles from where we live) but the vet was maybe five miles away. The vet had the same information, but said they would call the owner. Called back the next day and was told by the vet’s assistant that they’d never called back.

Obviously Shug was no longer wanted. But did these people actually believe this dog could survive in the country? It’s not like he’s a coyote used to killing rabbits….or a deer eating, well, whatever it is they eat.

He was starving when he came around our place. We thought about taking him to the local humane society…but it’s a kill shelter, where 50% of the animals brought in are euthanized.

We could put an ad in the paper but I’m worried the wrong person will get him. Our own other option is to look at an Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Rescue Organization. The closest one is about two hours away. I’ve looked the information up but haven’t made the call yet. Why, you might ask…

Well, Shug might not be the prettiest dog, but he’s smart. He can sit, stay and lie down on command. He’s very friendly, doesn’t flinch when you go to pet him…so he doesn’t appear to be abused. And he’s got a great personality. I think you can see where I’m going with this…

Yes, even though this breed of dog isn’t one I’d ever pick, I think we’re going to keep him, and I think that when I look back, I’ll consider him to be an unexpected blessing.