My husband and I have adopted two dogs from one of our local shelters. Shadow, a Border Collie/Black Labrador mix, was adopted when he was 4 months old (he is now 11 years old) and was abused prior to coming home with us. He was scared of everything, but with lots of love and attention he is now just as daring and protective as any dog would be. Rigby, a Boxer/Sheppard mix, was adopted at 7 weeks old and is now 6 years old, and together they rule our household. They greet us at the door every day with nothing but love and enthusiasm. There is nothing in the world quite like the unconditional love of a dog!! They have enriched our lives in so many ways and I can't imagine our lives without them.