What Rescue Dogs Have Taught Me About Wagging Tails

My View

Life never runs in a straight line. Actually, it’s usually the detours and sidetracks that offer us options and experiences we might never otherwise encounter. My path to educational leadership and the superintendency has taken a lot of turns.

Some of the most valuable lessons I have learned along the way have come from rescuing and fostering dozens of dogs over time. My wife Debbie and I have done so for almost 30 years.

We currently have three dogs: Jack, a 2-year-old black Labrador; Belle, an 11-year-old Boston terrier; and Greta, a 13-year-old maltipoo. All differ in size, personality, intellectual capacity, athletic skill and how they interact with us, each other and the world around them. Over the years, we have had other dogs and other combinations — including a few that were quite challenging — yet all managed to fit in and become part of the pack.

Acceptance in the world of a rescue dog has little to do with background, pedigree or the cost of the collar. Dogs are social creatures and thrive when they are treated well. Like people, dogs come in many varieties, so kindness and consistency work best. Knowing this is key to happy and successful relationships with pups — wherever they come from.