I’m as hardcore of a dog lover as they come.

They are one of the few things on this earth that can turn one of my bad days into a better one— or significantly better, depending on the breed. A sweet, tender puppy that can fit in the palm of my hand can turn me into a sniveling, squealing softy in the blink of an eye.

One moment I’m standing tall, under control and manly. The next, I’m down on the floor rolling around like a fool, playing with it.

I’m not ashamed to admit it—I love dogs.

Which is why I’m disappointed to say that I don’t have one… yet. I live in an apartment downtown that gives no room for a dog to properly grow, exercise and explore. Every puppy needs a yard to run around in, space to play in and fresh air to breathe. Where I’m living right now, I simply can’t provide that.

I have a dream of owning a home, with a big backyard and grass as green as emeralds. Running through this yard with a big smile on her face is a gorgeous chocolate lab. I even have her name picked out: Jackie. I don’t know why that name sticks out to me, but I like the idea of singing Jackie Blue by the Ozark Mountain Daredevils whenever I’m calling her.

Like I said, I’m not at a point in my life where that is an option.

But that doesn’t stop me from visiting the Bainbridge-Decatur County Humane Society’s website on a regular basis to see what pets they have.

Every now and then I see a little chocolate lab puppy and wonder, is that Jackie?

So far, none of them have been. So I’ll keep on looking out for her. I’ll find her one day.