Gennie & Nala: I Truly Feel Like We’re Making a Difference

Your name: Gennie

Your dog's name: Nala

Your location: St. Louis, MO

What made you decide to rescue a dog (as opposed to buying one)? We always knew we would rescue when the time was right, however I had never grown up around pit bulls and was honestly apprehensive. I’m forever grateful I was open minded during the adoption process, because Nala has changed my life in so many ways.

How did you come to find your rescue dog and how did you know he/she was 'the one'? A family friend runs a small foster-based rescue here in St. Louis. When we saw Nala’s photos on Facebook we knew we had to set up an appointment to meet her. I guess you could say it was love at first sight.

If applicable, please name the rescue/shelter (and location) your dog came from. 4 Paws 4 Rescue - St. Louis

If you and your pup had an entire day to do only fun things together, what would your day look like? Nala likes to start her mornings by snuggling under the covers with me until it’s time to get up. She loves sitting in chairs like a human, so I think our ideal day would be relaxing on a patio together and enjoying the weather.

If you had two magic minutes where your dog could understand everything you said, what would you tell her/him? I would tell her I love her more than I could ever put into words and that she’s been everything I could have hoped for and more. My hiking buddy, my goof ball, my weighted blanket. Life is better with her in it, and I’d want her to know that.

What would be your dog's theme song? It would have to be Hakuna Matata, because Nala truly has no worries.

How does your pup make your life better? As someone who struggles with intense and sometimes crippling anxiety, Nala has a way of knowing exactly when I need her by my side. Her presence by my side (or in my lap) is anchoring and always exactly what I need.

What do you want the world to know about rescuing a dog? There is truly no love like that of a rescue dog’s. If you have the means to open up your heart and home to a rescue (especially a pittie), you will love and laugh harder then you ever have.

Anything else we should know? I want to say that when you rescue a dog (particularly a pittie) you become a sort of ambassador for the breed. I’ve watched so many friends and family fall in love with this breed of dog, simply by getting to spend time with Nala. I truly feel like we’re making a difference and tearing down stigmas one person at a time.