Allie Fundaro is a senior at Temple University’s Lew Klein College of Media and Communications studying Advertising and Event and Entertainment Management. Beyond the classroom, she is a proud member of Phi Sigma Sigma and took on the role of philanthropy chairman during her junior year. This experience has helped her embrace every opportunity to grow and build lasting connections with the Philadelphia community. Allie is overly excited to have the opportunity to share her experience with her beloved dog through her blog.
The surprise of my life made such an impact that I still remember it like it was yesterday.
As I began walking into my house one afternoon after school, I started to hear a high-pitched bark behind the doors. I froze and turned to look at my dad, confused as to where that sound was coming from, because there was just no way that it was from our home. After the passing of my childhood dog, we didn’t have a pet anymore—or so I thought. But the second I stepped inside, I was greeted by the friendliest, happiest dog I had ever met.
Her name was Angel Baby (yes, that was her actual name!) and she was the best dog that I have ever had the privilege of knowing. We called her Angel for short, which was fitting, because of her bright white fur. The only time she looked less like an Angel was when my dad took her for a haircut, which made my Maltese mistakable for a Chihuahua. Regardless, Maltese or Chihuahua, Angel was a blessing to our family.
After the passing of my childhood dog, Coco, our house felt empty and silent. Angel Baby completely changed that. She filled our home with loud barks, excitement, and constant begging for food, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. She brought life back into our everyday routines and made the house feel like home again.
My favorite memories of Angel are the simple ones. For instance, when she would choose me to cuddle up with or when I took her to the park and she was able to run around without her leash. In moments like those, it felt like nothing else mattered in the world as long as she was happy. Angel was a crucial part of our lives. As I grew older, Angel did too, but that did not stop her unwavering energy and huge smiles. She taught me everything I know about caring for a being who depended on you. She also taught me to live in the moment because you never know what might happen.
Angel Baby passed away just last year due to natural causes, but it brings me peace knowing she is now happier and healthier than ever in doggy heaven.
And one of these years, I hope to make it to the National Dog Show hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, the weekend event that is scheduled for November 14-15 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. (Tickets go on sale in June at https://nds.nationaldogshow.com/.
The two-hour special on NBC has become an American family viewing tradition that attracts some 20 million total viewers every year.
Join me in celebrating dogs and dog lovers in a show that is like Angel Baby—energetic, exciting and wonderful in every way!
