Today, I drove up to the Miller farm to bring Tinia some first-class dog food donated to the Cambridge Valley Vet by people who have either lost their dogs or moved away or changed their foods. The bags were high quality, with the best and healthiest ingredients.

They asked if I knew anyone who could use the food.

I said I knew a dog who would love this food and deserved it, and so I drove up to the Miller Farm and as I got out of the car. One of my favorite dogs – Tina – came rushing across the field to greet me. She went right to the dog food bags and looked back at me with gratitude.

Tina knows all and misses nothing. I haven’t seen her for a couple of weeks, and I miss her.

She is one of the great dogs I have had the privilege of knowing, and I love her as if she were one of my own.

When I first met Tina, I’d been hearing all those horror stories about the Amish from the animal rights people, who don’t always waste too much time on truth and fairness.

I wondered if the day would come when Tina – she lost one leg in a saw – would go and live with me, but I see now that she is a very happy and loved dog; she is where she wants to be and is very well cared for on her Amish farm. She is a fearless and loyal spirit. I am proud and glad to be a supplier of healthy food for this dog; her lost leg has never slowed her down much. She keeps an eye on her family and pushes the horses around when she has a spare moment.

Something about this dog speaks to me. We connect. One of the dog food bags is right behind her in the photo, sitting near the door.

This is a dog with a great heart and spirit. I am happy to know her.