Inspiration: Where does it come from? Maybe we've experienced a heartfelt act of kindness, or viewed an inspiring piece of art that elevated our hearts and minds. A powerful song or thoughtful commentary can energize us to push through the frustrations of the day, or even those dreaded last steps on the treadmill. Regardless of it's origin, inspiration can help the human spirit overcome the greatest of obstacles. When I think about Gabbey, my adopted Korean Jindo, I see an indomitable spirit that despite the odds, continues to display the innate will to overcome all of the abuse and neglect that has plagued him in the past.
Gabbey was a basket case as a puppy and had already been rejected by two homes who couldn't handle his primitive antics. With his distrustful nature and insecure personality (which would later turn into fear aggression) the odds of him getting adopted into a loving home were slim to none. I already had my hands full with an extremely dominant Akita mix living in a 1 bedroom apartment. But there was something about Gabbey and his desperate situation that I couldn't ignore. As he hovered in the corner cowering in fear, I couldn't come to terms with the fact that something so innocent and new to this world had already been so damaged and misunderstood. Infancy and youth is the most vulnerable state for all living creatures and it was unbearable to see something so young already extremely terrified of this world.
I'm torn because when I adopted Gabbey, I really didn't have the heavily touted "experience" that I currently endorse for prospective Jindo owners, yet somehow Gabbey's spirit and drive to succeed inspired me to never give up, no matter how much he challenged me. He would constantly test my patience and push me to the limits of my sanity, but I refused to give up on him. Now as he snuggles next to me and stretches out into his peaceful bliss, we both can breathe a sigh of relief and reflect on the great places this friendship has taken us. Here lies my little Jindo warrior, hunter, joker and fool but no longer the basket case of his youth. After leaving his trauma behind, he can finally accept love and whole heartedly give it in return; He's a poster boy for why we all deserve a second chance in this sometimes unforgiving world.
For more on Gabbey please visit: http://www.jindotales.com
Gabbey is a wonderful dog. He is great around children, other dogs and for home security.
ReplyDeleteHe is my special pal and lil'buddy
Love Derek
Wow,
ReplyDeleteI never knew all that history about your dog. Would never have pegged him for a problem child. They both seem so relaxed. Looks like you did a great job with them both.
~Brady
This was such a joy to read. I feel like I know so much more about YOU and Gabby than I did before reading this wonderful story of patience and love! Gabby is lucky to live with you both.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this.
Love-
Suzi
I remember first meeting Gabbey and Toby and wondering why you didn't take home the smaller, "cuter", rarer, white one. So many years later and I get it.
ReplyDelete- Marie
I just had to put down my rescue jindo I had for 14 years. Your post makes me cry.
ReplyDeleteMy doggie was also damaged and relatively young. I did not know what a Jindo was when I got him. It was love at first sight. I was not looking for a dog (at shelter w/my mom to find her a cat :)
He also pushed my patience and had some issues - but the bond you have with a Jindo is like no other dog I've ever had "it;s a Jindo thing"...As someone said they are their own complete being separate from you, so when they bond with you it's powerful.
He was the cleanest, nicest, dog. I lost no shoes, no plants, no accidents in the house ever (until the very end and it was not his fault)
Your Gabbey is gorgeous- mine had similar coloring. I miss his ears, his eyes, and his tail. Love your doggie - it is devastating when they must leave us...
Aloha
Thank you so much for posting and sharing your story. Only a Jindo could bring out all of these emotions and yes, it will be so hard to say goodbye to Gabbey.(He just turned 13) I hope one day you'll find it in your hear to adopt another Jindo as you clearly gave your dog such a loving home.
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