How Riggs, My Saint Bernard Poodle, Became My Best Friend
For as long as I can remember, I wanted a dog. Growing up, I would constantly ask my mom for one, pleading every chance I got, but her answer was always the same—"No." I couldn’t understand why we couldn’t have a dog, especially when it felt like all of my friends had one. I imagined what it would be like to have a furry companion, someone to play with, snuggle with, and just share life with. But despite my endless requests, it never seemed like it was going to happen.
The Wait: A Dog Dream Deferred
Throughout my childhood, I would daydream about having a dog. I envisioned all the fun we’d have—playing fetch, going on walks, and just having that bond that only a dog owner can understand. But my mom held firm. We were busy, there was always something going on, and the timing just never felt right to her. So, as much as I wanted one, I eventually learned to accept that a dog just wasn’t in the cards for our family.
COVID Hits: A Silver Lining in a Challenging Time
Then, everything changed when COVID hit. Like many families, we suddenly found ourselves with much more time on our hands. Life slowed down, and the hustle and bustle that once kept us so busy came to a standstill. It was during this time that my mom finally caved. After years of hearing me ask for a dog, she saw how much it would mean to have a furry companion during such an uncertain time. And so, we began the search for the perfect dog.
That’s when we found Riggs—my gentle giant.
Enter Riggs: The Saint Bernard Poodle
Riggs is a Saint Bernard Poodle mix, and when we brought him home, I instantly knew he was the dog I had always dreamed of. Weighing in at 104 pounds, he’s a massive, lovable ball of fur. Despite his size, he’s the most gentle soul you could ever meet. He’s big, sure, but he wouldn’t hurt a fly. From the moment he became part of our family, it was clear that Riggs was something special.
My Best Friend
Riggs isn’t just a dog to me—he’s my best friend. He has this incredible ability to sense when I need him most. Whether I’m having a bad day or just feeling down, Riggs will quietly nuzzle his way next to me, offering comfort in the way only a dog can. He doesn’t need to say anything; his presence is enough to lift my spirits.
We go on long walks together, play in the yard, and, of course, snuggle up on the couch (even though he’s way too big to be a lap dog, he still tries). He’s loyal, loving, and always there when I need him. I can’t imagine my life without him now. Riggs is more than just a pet—he’s family.
The Unexpected Joy of Having Riggs
Looking back, I can’t believe I went so long without a dog. Riggs has brought an unexpected joy to my life that I didn’t fully realize was missing. There’s something incredibly grounding about having a pet—especially one as affectionate and gentle as Riggs. He’s taught me the true meaning of companionship and unconditional love.
And while it took years for my mom to say “yes,” I think she sees now how much he means to me and our family. In a strange way, COVID brought Riggs into our lives at the perfect time, when we needed his love and companionship more than ever.
Conclusion: A Dream Realized
I always knew I wanted a dog, but I never could have imagined just how much Riggs would mean to me. He’s more than just a pet—he’s my best friend, my loyal companion, and the missing piece I had been longing for all those years. I wouldn’t know what to do without him, and I’m grateful every day that my childhood dream finally came true.
Riggs may be 104 pounds of pure dog, but his heart is even bigger. And while my mom may have said “no” for all those years, I think even she would agree now that bringing Riggs into our lives was one of the best decisions we ever made.
