I was 8 years old when like most kids my age, I really wanted a dog. My mother took me to the SPCA in Calgary to have a look. When we were in the shelter there were so many lonely and adorable dogs, but the one dog that caught my eye was the oldest, dirtiest dog that just lay there and looked up at me with the sweetest eyes. It was like she was meant to be mine. The filthy fur and dirty smell didn't bother me, she was perfect. When I found out that she was going to be put to sleep the next day there was no way that I was leaving there without her. That night was my mother's birthday, and it was spent bathing and brushing my dog Princess, who turned out to be a beautiful Springer Spaniel, that spent 10 more years with us. She was one of the best dogs that I have ever had. I am so grateful to have had such an amazing four-legged friend.