Hi, I'm Lauren and this is my dog, Harrie.
As with many people who get a dog, my life completely changed — but adopting her has been the best thing I've ever done. When I got her, I had been in the process of trying to adopt a dog for months. I searched a dozen rescue organizations daily, but nothing was working out. Then one day, my sister sent me this pic. It was Harrie, formerly known as Harriet. I fell in love instantly and badgered the rescue until they told me she was mine.
When we met, little Harriet was 3 months old. She was born in Puerto Rico, and her mom was a street dog. She had a rash on her belly that needed tending to, and now she was my responsibility.
As a single mom to a very hyper and active puppy, I immediately felt overwhelmed, as if maybe I wasn't cut out for this. Truly she was the dictionary definition of a naughty puppy. But every day we worked on things, and our bond grew. I started to learn who Harrie was, and also I began to change because she needed me to change. We had to figure out our new life together.
I know it sounds as if I'm just some weird dog-obsessed person who also has no friends. But it's not just that!! Harrie literally taught me to be a better human! I'm someone who has seriously struggled with ADHD and anxiety, and in general I am kind of a mess. Harrie made me learn how to be more organized and clean up after myself, the importance of patience, and even how to help manage anxious thoughts and ~let things go~. I'm going through a hard time with my family right now, but she brings me comfort and happiness. Basically, she has made my life better in every way, even if it's more difficult now. Like, sometimes her paw is on my computer screen as she naps while I work, and that's OKAY. In fact, it's literally happening as I type this. I don't need to see that part of my screen anyway.
So now you know about how I met Harrie and how she has changed my life for the better.
