Jerri sat quietly in his kennel, his tail giving a small, hesitant thump against the concrete floor. He didn’t understand the human concept of birthdays, of cake and presents and songs. But he sensed a shift in the air, a different energy that permeated the shelter. He’d seen other dogs receive extra attention on days like this – a new toy, a longer walk, maybe even a visit from a potential adopter.
He wasn’t like the other dogs, though. His face, marked by a slight underbite and mismatched ears, wasn’t what most people would consider traditionally “cute.” He’d overheard the whispers, the quick glances followed by averted eyes. He knew he wasn’t the prettiest dog in the shelter.
He watched as families stopped at other kennels, their faces lighting up as they connected with a playful puppy or a sleek, regal hound. He’d see the smiles, the gentle pats, the loving words. Then, he’d glance at his reflection in his water bowl – the slightly crooked jaw, the mismatched ears – and a wave of sadness would wash over him.
He’d often curl up in his bed, his head resting on his paws, a quiet sigh escaping his lips. He’d heard the whispers, the hushed comments about his appearance. He knew he was different, and he worried that it made him unlovable.
Today, on this day that felt different, this day that he sensed was special, he felt the weight of his perceived flaws even more acutely. He longed for the same attention, the same affection, the same chance at a loving home that the other dogs received.
He thought, Maybe today will be different. Maybe today someone will see past my face and see the real me. He closed his eyes for a moment, picturing a gentle hand stroking his fur, a kind voice whispering his name.
He didn’t expect grand gestures or extravagant displays of affection. He just hoped that people could ignore his “ugly” appearance, as he’d heard it called, and see the loving, loyal companion he truly was. He hoped for a simple acknowledgment, a kind word, a gentle touch. He hoped that on this day, whatever it was, someone would offer him a little love, a small reminder that even a dog like him deserved to be cherished. He hoped that on this special day, people could send him good wishes, not for his looks, but for the loving heart that beat within him.
