By Sandra Bost
We have a deaf dog. He came to live with us in 2017. My husband had the idea that I said we needed a fur-buddy to ride in the Jeep with us. I did not. However, because I love that man of mine, I went along with him, from humane society to humane society, looking for “my” dog.
During that time, he saw a post on Facebook about a deaf dog in need of a home. The personal ad went on to include a few of the details of his life and loyalty. He had been in and out of the shelter due to the life circumstances of his various owners. All of that was eclipsed by the picture of this pure white, handsome American Bulldog. With his big, brown, puppy-dog eyes beckoning to us through the screen, we were smitten. So, we replied to the post, thus beginning our near eight-year adventure.
We had never owned a dog with special needs before, so there was a learning curve. On top of his inconspicuous disability, he had trust issues. It seems that in his 2 years before coming to us, he had attached quickly to his multiple, previous owners. Being dropped off at various shelters had caused an amount of understandable anxiety. So, what we found ourselves with was a pretty, anxiety-ridden, dependent, complete with allergies and stress-induced shedding dog. But that is not all. He truly is so much more.
Admittedly, I have my days of doggy disdain and grow weary of picking prickly white hairs out of my clothes, but this boy sure is a good one. He is so faithful to greet us when we arrive home, if he is watching from his window post. He is relentless — if not ridiculous — in his whole-body tail wagging excitement when he thinks it is time to go out or, even better, go for a ride. He is fiercely protective and exceptionally strong. This boy, despite the uncertain way that his life path began, has adapted and learned to control himself even under the most questionable circumstances. I don’t always like him, but I love him.
So many things about the way he approaches life inspire me. I love the happy and curious way he responds to nature. I love the loyal and cuddly way he reacts to my husband. I love the silly way he cocks his head sideways when he is trying to figure something out. Even as a senior adult, he attacks life with the playfulness of a pup. He has not let harsh beginnings or disabilities hinder his joy.
A few years ago, we were going through a study of the Psalms at our church. Our pastor challenged us to write our own Psalm. So, being in a particularly pensive mood, considering the charismatic ways of our quirky Kar (the name he had when we adopted him), I came up with this. I hope you will be encouraged by this ol’ boy as much as he has surely encouraged me —even if I never admit it to my husband.
A Psalm of Sandra when she ponders the ways of the deaf dog, Kar.
All day, he keeps watch through the window and longs for our return; I want to long for Your return as resolutely. You are Faithful. (Jehovah)
When we return, he notices, and greets us with ridiculous excitement; I want to lavish You with ridiculous praise and affection. You are worthy. (El Shaddai, Jehovah Nissi)
When we give him direction, his eyes are fixed on us and he obeys; I want to fix my eyes on You and obey Your commands. You are Sovereign. (Elohim, Adonai)
When he is hungry, or has a need, he trusts us to care for him; I want to trust You with every care and every need. You are a Good Father. (Jehovah Jireh)
When we are home, he stays by our sides and comes to us for friendship and comfort; I want to be as devoted to You. You are my Friend and my Peace. (Jehovah Shalom)
Oh! Great God! When I ponder the ways of this beautifully ridiculous deaf dog, my heart longs to love you with such enthusiasm and faithfulness. Help me, Abba, to have the nature of Kar in all of my ways.
Selah!
