08/26/2026
It’s National Dog Day, so of course I have to share Kiki and I’s story — in case someone out there needs a little extra encouragement to adopt a rescue pup. ❤️🐾
11 years ago, I was working for a small business that partnered with local animal shelters. For weeks, I watched volunteers bring dog after dog to the business, hoping they’d find their forever home.
Then one day, I saw Kiki. This little, skinny, red dog came trotting across the parking lot, her giant ears bouncing as she made her way inside. I went out to meet the new group of pups, and Kiki immediately flopped down beside me, rolled onto her back, and asked for belly rubs. Obviously, I obliged.
My boss yelled from the door, “Belly rubs, you buy it! Are you taking that one home?! You have the same hair color!”
I laughed, went back to work, and tried to get on with my day. Tried.
I spent the rest of the day watching Kiki from the window as people came and went, meeting the dogs and choosing their new family.
By the end of the day, I knew Kiki was coming home with me. While signing her adoption papers, I learned she had already been adopted THREE times and returned to the shelter. She was only nine months old. My heart broke💔
Over 11 years and countless moves, Kiki has been my constant. My adventure buddy, snuggle buddy, shadow, and bestest girl.
As someone without a partner or children, our bond has always felt especially profound. She’s been my family. She’s been there through every move, heartbreak, new beginning, high and low. She isn’t “just a dog.” She has been my home when home was a place I was still trying to find.
And she’s down for just about anything:
🚲 Mountain biking? She’s crushing trails.
🛶 Rafting the Yellowstone? Life jacket on.
😴 Hammock nap? Better make room.
😂 Making a snack? One for her too.
🏕️ Camping? Don’t forget her Rumpl blanket.
So if you’ve ever thought about adopting a rescue pup, let Kiki’s story be your little nudge. You never know when the dog sitting in that kennel — the one who’s been overlooked or returned before — might become one of the greatest love stories of your life. ♥️🐾
