If we humans were as adaptable as dogs the world might be a better place, or at the least a less stressful place.

I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t welcome the unknown if I am not in control. I am not a fan of change unless it is carefully thought out in advance and all alternatives are considered. I profess to be flexible but only if the flexibility is on my own terms. I think I KNOW there will be lessons I’ll learn from Kali who after slightly less than 96 hours from touchdown at SFO seems at peace with her new surroundings and is eager to please and adapt.

Everything is new for Kali yet she doesn’t complain.

New tasting water – it’s OK.  Unfamiliar climate – no problem.  New smells – it’s fine and rather exciting. The list goes on and on. If my world was turned upside down (literally – check your world globe and look at Taiwan relative to the U.S.) I would be angry, resentful, and uncooperative.  It’s easy to say “hey – this is a better life for her – of course Kali’s happy”.  No,  it isn’t easy. It’s hard. But Kali, and I’m sure the 22 other dogs that were with her in the cargo bay of China Air Flight 004, will set a great example for us self-professed flexible and easy-going humans who complain when our favorite Starbucks is closed and we have to walk across the street to the other Starbucks.

Kali at rest in her new back yard

First side by side meal with Smokey

We were committed to Kali the moment we saw her picture and it never crossed our minds that this would be anything but forever.  So I toast our new girl and  cite some of her accomplishments after only four days in America:

• Slept through the night on just her third night
• Took two short walks around the neighborhood and surrounding creek trails
• First car ride in America running errands with “dad”
• Greeted the appliance repair man with a smile and wagging tail
• Shared a meal with her brother smokey side-by-side (with great manners!)

Here is a final thought:  adopt a dog, adapt a human.  Not a bad plan to improve the world, right?

Cheers!