Three years ago my best furry friend died a sad death. She ran from our house after a rabbit and went too far, resulting in her being hit on the main road that connects to my driveway. That night, I came home from the movies to have my dad tell me with clouded eyes that we had to bury my dog, Candy.

Ever since that night, I have begged, pleaded, tried, and cried to my parents in an attempt to convince them to let our family bring another precious four-legged family member home. I have stopped and petted every single dog that has crossed my path over the past three years and even temporarily stole one, sorry, Sam! I needed a dog in my life, but not just because I wanted a dog. Dogs are great therapy and support animals and for me, a dog would help me when an anxiety attack strikes or when I can't sleep because I can't turn my negative thoughts off. I spent many nights hoping and praying that one day, somehow, a dog once again be a part of our family.

My incessant pleas finally paid off. On June 29, 2016, my precious pup, Zoey, was welcomed into the family household! We came across Zoey via my father's coworker. He said that they just couldn't handle her anymore and that she was too hard to train. Well, my family likes a challenge and this was the perfect opportunity to have a family bonding experience and bring in a new family member. I cried when I came home and saw her and then we spent a solid hour and a half in Petsmart picking out the perfect collar, harness, bed, and toys for our new furry family member.

Although I am beyond thrilled and blessed that Zoey is in our family, I know that she will be able to help us just as much as we will be able to help her. Being such a loving mix of breeds (Golden Retriever and Siberian Husky) she always wants to cuddle and doesn't hesitate to lie down and take a nap with you. Even though we have only had her for 24 hours, she has already been a huge comfort to not only myself but my family as well.

Many studies have focused on the effects that dogs can have in comforting their owners who may suffer from anxiety disorders or depression. Being an anxiety sufferer myself, I know that Zoey will bring much more ease and comfort to my life just by greeting me when I walk in the door after work. As I am writing this article, Zoey is sitting at my feet and will not leave my side. I suggest that anyone who may be lonely or be an anxiety or depression victim look into adopting a precious doggy into your life. A furry companion will bring you more peace that you could ever imagine. Dogs are perfect and dogs are happiness.