Turning Into a Dog Person
Taiasha R. was not a dog person. In fact, in her own words, she was terrified of dogs. She admittedly had no real reason or past incident to make her so afraid, but her discomfort around dogs was intense—and it didn’t matter the size of the dog.
And then, Taiasha met eight-year-old Onyx.
Her son, Ian, had moved to Baltimore and applied to foster for BARCS. In August 2021, he picked up senior Onyx. Onyx came to BARCS after his former owner began experiencing health issues. They described Onyx as “as lazy like an Eeyore and enjoys sunbathing on the grass.” So, a laid back pup with simple tastes!
It took several visits to her son for Taiasha to grow more comfortable with Onyx. Even if she froze with fear, Onyx would never jump on her or force his presence—he just seemed happy to know her. Over time, Taiasha learned that Onyx was patient and kind. As they continued to get to know each other, Taiasha learned she had nothing to fear.
She explains, “Onyx was very chill. He had hearing issues and a weak back leg. I wondered who would adopt him. I began to fear that he wouldn’t get the same attention or love my son was giving. I asked more about him during my calls, sent him treats and demanded pictures. I couldn’t wait to see him again! I fell in love more and more during our visits and it surprised me how responsive he was to my affection. I was ECSTATIC when Ian told me he adopted him.”
That’s right: after six long months in foster care, Ian made Onyx, now Samson, an official member of the family. As Taiasha says, “it was definitely a match made in heaven.”
Today, Taiasha is head over heels in love. Whenever she visits Baltimore, she takes Samson on walks and makes him special grandma meals (including boiled chicken with turmeric, string beans, pumpkin and boiled eggs) that she hand feeds him.
“I love pampering him, and I love how he enjoys it!” she says.
We’re so happy for you both!
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