Tails: A birthday of a lifetime

We had decided to celebrate Thorp’s 7th birthday with the kids at school… I would bring cupcakes and the kids would learn how to make homemade doggies treats. It sounded like a fun day…

But, neither, Thorp or I, knew how special of a day it would be.

Yesterday, we walked into the classroom and were immediately surrounded by the kids who were singing, “Happy Birthday” and swamping Thorp with gifts and cards that they had made and brought in.

We were barely inside the doorway and I found myself sitting down right there and watching in awe as these kids, whom we have only known for a short time, showered Thorp with love and affection.

All of the cards had a picture resembling Thorp on them – all hand drawn by the children... There were adorable paper candles made for Thorp to blow out and gift bags filled with treats and toys.

Once the initial excitement settled a bit – Thorp and I went over to “our” rug and the kids sat in their seats and in unison sang the entire birthday song including the “cha cha cha” part. It took my breath away.

To many it would seem just a fun celebration – something kids would do for any dog – but for Thorp and me – this was different.

I can never forget where Thorp came from – the life he once had to endure. The cold nights and the hot days – the loneliness and the terror.

To think just a few years ago – Thorp’s birthday meant nothing to anyone – just a dog in cage – a product on a shelf. But yesterday, Thorp’s birthday was an amazing celebration.

He was the center of attention. And, kids, who aren’t always understood, came together and showed just how caring and creative and generous they can be.

Everyone was so genuine with their affection – they truly wanted it to be a special day for Thorp.

It melts my heart to see the connection that has been made so quickly. Such as the warm welcome Thorp gets when we walk in the room or watching one of the children sit down quietly with Thorp and tell him that they missed him – well, that is priceless.

We did make treats – the kids measured out the ingredients and stirred the dough – rolling it out and using cookie cutters to make bones and fire hydrants and dog shapes.

They learned about sharing and working together and to do things for other people – well, in this case, a dog.

Once the treats were in the oven – we handed out the cupcakes and once again – they sang Happy Birthday.

Thorp sat and listened and I believe really took it all in. I know he is “just a dog” to many people – but many of us rescue people believe that a puppy mill dog always remembers where they came from and never takes things for granted.

Yesterday, amongst a class of children, Thorp was the star shining – holding his head high with kids who don’t always get a chance to show just how special they are – maybe that is why Thorp and they were meant to be together.