A canine came to our country home last weekend. I saw him at first light on our patio. When I stepped out of the house to feed Big Dog and Buddy, he high-tailed through our backyard and into the wheat field beyond.
As I tended to my dogs, I espied the new dog feeling his way furtively back into our yard. When he saw my dogs lapping up their breakfast, his curiosity, and hunger, got the better of him. Tentatively, he approached them, but they ignored him and went right on eating.
When my dogs finished eating, they retreated to the patio for a cool drink of water before settling down for one of their frequent naps. About that time, the dog with no collar and no identification, decided to test the waters, so to speak, by sneaking a few sips from the patio water bowl. Big Dog remained oblivious to his presence. Buddy emitted a guttural growl before succumbing to slumber.
Left with my new and uninvited guest, the dog lover in me felt the need to feed him, just as I had done with my own dogs. At first, he was reluctant to come near the food dish or me.
After some gentle coaxing on my part, he nimbly nibbled a few morsels from the dish. He soon warmed to the taste, and ate the rest with relish. I rewarded him with a second bowl.
Since a dog with no name is a canine crying shame, I nicknamed him “Dwin,” as in “Dog without identifiable name.” That seemed about right to me. So that was what I called him during the rest of his brief visit.
Once the novelty of having a trio of dogs faded, I set out to resolve my doggone dilemma in a humane way without harm to the bonds of domesticity. Fortunately, the friendly folks at our local Animal Control and Adoption Center came to Dwin’s rescue-and mine, by welcoming him in with open arms and warm hearts. They even let him keep his nickname, for now anyway. Brandy Bouldin was especially helpful. She treated Dwin with care and compassion.
Warren County is, indeed, fortunate to have an animal shelter with a courteous, professional staff. They’re working hard to accomplish their myriad missions with limited resources. Thanks to them, Dwin and other desperate dogs like him have a new lease on life, and a chance for adoption by a loving family. They know, “There’s no such thing as just a dog.”
  I staunchly support the Warren County Animal Control and Adoption Center. And I urge my readers to show your support, too. Above all, let our County Executive and Commissioners know your views. After all, the future of our animal shelter is largely in their hands.
For my larger reading audience, I urge you to get involved in efforts to protect animals in your own community. You’ll be glad you did; I will, too.
Retired Army Col. Thomas B. Vaughn can be reached at tbvbwmi@blomand.net.