
Montgomery (left), my black and tan, was truly my once in a lifetime dog, yet I didn't know it till he was gone. He was never the star, never at the forefront, and never my first pick to take anywhere or do anything. He was my soulmate. I talk to his grave, cry when I hear his recordings, and miss him every day. When I brought him home as a clutzy pup, he didn't cling to me or follow me around. He sat in the adjoining room and stared at me. Yet, he grew in to my steady eddie, my rock, my buddy.
The Weimaraners always stole the show. Their ribbon box was overflowing. But, when called upon, Montgomery would put on a solid performance, especially if it was necessary and not superfluous.
The Labs were the party all the time dogs out in the yard. Yet, Montgomery ruled the yard. With a glance, he could keep order in the pack and make sure all was okay.
I wonder that hounds don't get passed over at shelters because they don't automatically leap in to your arms and hand over their heart. Just like my young pup staring at me and evaluating me, I think they hold off for a bit, but oh, when they give in and lean softly against you and gaze deeply in to your eyes with those beautiful hound eyes, its all over! When they decide that you are their "people," they will be your faithful defender, your soulmate, your best buddy, and hands down the best dog you've ever owned. They will steal your heart and wrap you around their little toe without you ever realizing it.
They won't necessarily put on a big show or do a victory dance the day they steal your heart. It'll just simply happen. You'll see a certain wiseness in their steady gaze.
Hounds do put on shows, but not over the deep, intense bond they'll share with you. They aren't the ones bringing big bouquets of flowers and screaming "I love you" a hundred times a day. They are the steady, reliable beloved companions for us every day of their lives. The goofy shows they will do for everyone when they feel like pulling a joke or being silly. A hound in his element can make even the most dour laugh!
I think I need to go give the love of my life a hug. The big goofy spotted thing has been waiting gently at my side for his turn for attention!
~Mary Beth Hall