If you aren’t already following me on instagram, I want to introduce you to my beautiful little bestie Bella.

My whole life I have always wanted a dog. Last November, I finally realized it was the right time for me. I felt like I had so much love in my heart to give, and am definitely at a place in my life where I’m ready to be responsible for a little fur-life. I went down to the Calgary Humane Society with my family, and that’s where I met Bella.

Bella’s mum was a Pitbull rescued from the reserves. From the look of her, I know she definitely has some German Shepard in her as well. When I met her, I found her to be so cute and curious; I was excited to take her home, but I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

Puppies are hard work! And she has been worth every minute of it. Bella is definitely a positive influence in my life. This last year has been one of tremendous growth for me, and I’m so glad that she’s been there on the journey. Bella has given me a sense of purpose I didn’t have before. I have someone to care for, something else to put first before myself. On my tough days, I know I have to pull it together because she needs me. The relationship is reciprocal. Bella is very intuitive, and when I am sick or sad she definitely picks up on it and comforts me. Bella will be a year old soon, and as she gets older she has definitely become more protective of me. Even play fighting with me will result in a heavy glare and intervention from her. She’s the best.

She keeps me going sometimes. I think this might sound really weird, but I really want to create the best life for myself that I can in part because I want her to have the best life that she can.

Dogs are amazing little creatures who do wonders for anxiety and depression. Pets give people a sense of purpose and responsibility that can be hard to find or create when we’re lost. Pets make us feel found again. Dogs definitely give unconditional love – and sometimes you just need to know that someone loves you no matter what. Dogs also remind you to live in the moment, simply because it’s what they do.

Check out this article from Psychology Today if you are interested in reading a little more in-depth about the health benefits of having a pup.

Oh yes, there’s also the part where dogs need regular exercise, so Bella gets me off my butt often for that. She’s okay on a leash but prefers to run wild. I hope to get her a sister or brother soon so that she has a buddy to play with! Having an extra cuddle buddy around won’t hurt anything either!

I’ve cleaned up so much poop, and puke, and thrown out my fair share of shoes but I wouldn’t trade it for anything, I’m so lucky to have this amazing creature support me and join me on all of life’s adventures!