An Unexpected Friendship

     New friends are given to us in just the right timing. After grieving the loss of our two beagles in a two week period, we found a new friend in Lola. We adopted Lola, a three year-old beagle terrier mix, from a rescue in Madison. We could only guess what she had to endure in her former “home.” Lola would cower at just about everything…quick movements by us, noises, even our back yard created fear in this 25 pound sweetie. With consistent love and acceptance on our part, Lola came around with most things within months. We hoped to get a second dog before too long so she could have a friend.
     I took Lola to basic obedience classes at our local vet clinic. She did well with basic commands as long as she was by my side. Other dogs, however, terrified her, especially large ones. She would squish herself down into the floor to become invisible, and occasionally growl at them with her hair raised. We thought we’d never be able to get a second dog to keep her company because every dog she met scared her so much. We decided to let the idea go, and trust that if a dog showed up in our lives, we would consider it.
     An entire year went by when my friend, Lori asked us if we could dog-sit her yellow lab for a week. At first we thought, “Yikes…a lab?” We were not sure Lola could handle this, so we agreed to have her bring the dog over for a “meet and greet” and see what happened. Lori showed up with her 12 year old, 67 pound dog named “Chamois.” With both dogs on leashes out in the yard, Lola actually wagged her tail when she saw Chamois coming! I couldn’t believe it! She sniffed Chamois all over and not one hair stood up. No growling. No cowering. Chamois, a true lady, expressed no interest in Lola, which was perfect for her. We decided it was a go! The moment Chamois entered our house, it felt like she was OUR dog. She fit right in and made herself comfortable. Lola was fine! A few days later Lori and I discussed the possibility of Chamois staying with us for the rest of her life. Although very sad to part with her, Lori agreed because she didn’t feel she was home enough to meet Chamois’ needs. Chamois could live out her last few years peacefully on our farm. We were thrilled.
     Chamois has been with us for five months now. She plays with tennis balls and Lola runs along side her. When it is time for dinner, Lola goes and gets Chamois before she comes into the kitchen. Lola takes comfort in Chamois during a storm, and she even licks her face. Chamois has taught Lola that she doesn’t have to bark in the back yard when we are out in the barn, and that she can stay outside for hours enjoying the sunshine even if we are not out there too. Lola’s confidence has skyrocketed and she is much less afraid now when she meets a new dog…even a large one. Everyone deserves a best friend, and Lola found hers in an aging yellow lab.




Lola and Chamois, Sept. 2010