When I adopted my dog many years ago, I thought my dog and cat would never get along. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that was not the case. Their first meeting was a bit uneasy, but they got along just fine, likely because my dog was very social and loved being around other animals. Dogs, I learned, enjoy playing with just about anyone—not just other humans or dogs—and I find that endearing.
Today, we will discuss a similar story about a dog named Martha, which perfectly demonstrates how dogs can make friends anywhere.
Martha’s New Friend
When Aaron learned about Martha at the California shelter, the rescuers deemed her unadoptable due to a large scar on her back. Despite their concerns, Aaron chose to adopt her in hopes of improving her life. Aware of the challenges ahead, Aaron quickly discovered that Martha was not very good with other dogs, often unable to approach them, presumably due to her past.
To keep Martha away from stress, Aaron always tried to avoid situations with other dogs. They often walked in less crowded areas of the park to minimize the chances of any issues. Surprisingly, Aaron discovered that Martha had a fondness for squirrels. Whenever she spotted a squirrel, she would pause, choosing not to scare them away, which was a positive sign for her owner.
Martha Is So Gentle
Although Martha might learn to behave better around other dogs, her owner has noticed that her obsession with squirrels remains strong. For years, Aaron has taken Martha back to the park and the same tree where she first encountered her furry friends, allowing her to enjoy their company. While calling it “interaction” might be a stretch, as Martha simply stays still while the squirrels move around her, it is undeniably adorable.
Interestingly, Martha seems to prefer the squirrels from this specific tree and ignores others, demonstrating a bond with her favorites. Although Aaron remains vigilant, fearing potential aggression, Martha has never acted out. Even as a senior dog, her owner is amazed at her vitality, continually striving to create opportunities for Martha to revel in the little joys of life. Visiting the squirrels is Martha’s cherished safe space, embodying her love for life, and it’s heartwarming to witness her owner’s dedication to ensuring her happiness.
