Leo came into my life during my teenage years—a puppy of two months, so beautiful he looked almost unreal, small and tender. Usually when someone decides to get a dog, the owners choose the puppy. But Leo chose us. He wedged himself between the wheels of my wheelchair, startling the breeder, as if to say: this is where I belong.
And so began my life with a new companion. We had adventures. We had messes—so many messes. But Leo was always gentle with me. We played together, went to the park, and when I came home he showered me with excitement. At night he would sneak into my room to check on me, to make sure I was sleeping safely. He was a good dog, but he still needed rules, and we worked hard to teach them to him.
We trained together in civil protection work, which meant commitment from all of us—sometimes sessions during the week. His favorite games were chasing a ball and collecting rocks. He brought home stones of every shape and size. Since he almost never barked, the only way to hear his voice was to show him a biscuit or a sausage, ask him what he wanted, or tell him to play dead.
Our beautiful Leo stayed with us for eleven years. Then he got sick. We had to put him down to spare him suffering. Yes, having a dog is demanding. It requires attention. But that doesn't mean it isn't rewarding. A dog gives you real companionship.
Arianna Giuliano, 2023