Wowee! That Dan! Whatta guy! Whatta good boy! Whatta star!  That’s what everyone says when they see me. And you know what? They’re absolutely right. I am all those things.  I have so much charisma that even the fleas won’t bite me. They’re like “You know what, buddy? Have a good day. Let’s meet up for a bowl of tap water sometime,” and they move along. I’m pretty sure that’s how it works, anyway. The Nexguard I get every month is beside the point.

Anyway, my point is… I’m a pretty cool guy. I love stopping mid-walk for a belly rub. My language has 128 words for “friend.” I get along with other dogs. I haven’t met cats, but I’d be happy to do a cat test before going home with somebody. I’m two years old and about 60 lb and I’ve already decided I love you.

Now, here’s the thing… sure, I’ve got a soul full of sunshine. And sure, photographers have started telling people to say “Dan” instead of “Cheese” because literally nobody who knows me can think of me without smiling. But I know most people want a dog with a perfect body, and unfortunately, I haven’t got one. Don’t get me wrong- I know I’m movie-star handsome. But… well. My hips don’t lie. Or one cannot lie and one cannot speak the truth. So one says “I have double hip dysplasia and, while I don’t need surgery yet, I will eventually. In the meantime, I love short walks and soft beds and I take a daily anti-inflammatory and joint supplement.” and the other says, “Ultra low-rise jeans were the height of timeless fashion and are flattering on every body type.” I’ll leave you to guess which is the lie and which is true.   Here’s something I know for sure is true, though: even if my hips are a little wonky, I’m still an awesome dog and absolutely worth loving. I deserve a chance at a life where I’m happy, loved, and part of a family!