After I signed the adoption papers for Ruby and brought her home, I discovered I rescued her from an abusive situation.  With a soft heart towards anything mistreated, my heart ached for her. 

Side note:  Did you know God cares about the abuse of animals?

Good people take care of their animals, but the wicked know only how to be cruel.  Proverbs 12:10

After careful observation of Ruby in her first set of obedience classes, the trainer explained Ruby’s abuse would disqualify her from training to become a protection dog.  My heart sank.  I wanted to protect her from all other abuse, but I also wanted a protection dog to keep me safe in Haiti.

One friend suggested I “trade her in” for a more aggressive pup.  (This friend obviously is not a lover of all creatures great and small).  Another friend asked, “If you believe God is truly in control, wasn’t it God that put this dog into your care?”

Over the next several days, I talked to God about Ruby’s future.  He always has the answers!  He reminded me that He is sending me to Haiti to minister to children with a history of abuse.  Should I trade in these kids for some perfect kids?  The Deaf may very well be able to relate to a dog with a similar history.  Doesn’t God love us unconditionally with all our imperfections?  Ruby is already becoming the center of a lesson plan for the kids about God’s love! 

If you know my heart, you know that I am keeping Ruby – despite her flaws.  She and I are now registered in therapy dog classes.  Perhaps God plans to use Ruby to minister to the Deaf kids, and He will protect me in His way.

You do not get the dog you want; you get the dog you need.  –Cesar Millan