The Project Dog
Project dogs may challenge us, frustrate us, and at times, make us feel like giving up. But they will also teach us more about dogs, ourselves and what it means to love, flaws and all, than we could have ever imagined. The Project Dog blog series aims to highlight the journeys of some amazing dogs and their humans.
I have been the guardian to a reactive dog (people and dogs) for the last 11 years and she has changed my life in some incredible ways, but being her person felt impossible at times. Those early years presented me with challenges that I was not prepared or equipped for. It was isolating and frustrating and I often felt judged and criticized. While time and experience has shifted my perspective a lot since then, those old feelings are still there as a memory.
Reading these stories from the guardians of Project Dogs may be healing some of those old feelings that I had buried. Their struggles, their frustrations, the love they have for their dogs, the changes they have made to better their dog's lives, the lessons they have learned along they way - they are just like mine.
These stories make me feel seen and heard through the words of other people who are sharing in these same experiences. You don't have to feel isolated or judged. There are people out there who understand you, people who understand your dog, people who understand your journey. I hope you can find some of your own comfort and support in these stories, just like I have.
And if you feel ready to share your dog's story. I would love to read it!
-Noelle, Series Editor