I believe I have mentioned adopting a Yorkie before. He is 9 1/2 years old but so young at heart. He is also a great manipulator.

​He has been so easily taught to ask to go outside when needed. He had only gone on the former owners patio on a pad. He has become my constant companion.

Well, he has decided he loves it outside Why? because there are others dogs out there that are walked, and I have just noticed a stray black and white cat - It came to my porch for safety when a neighbor was walking his dog.. A beautiful cat that I imagine has been "dropped off" at our apartments, even though we back up to animal shelter.

​Well, Riley now wants to go out constantly to "sniff" where that cat has been. The cat probably outweighs him at least 4 times, but he is so curious. Not knowing his "history," I am not sure he has ever met a cat.

He loves it outside, walks and just going on the porch. I have had to place chicken wire across the front because he is so small he can slip through the slats and out he goes.

​I had forgotten what joy a dog can bring. He sleeps with me, wakes me up every morning by standing on me, and is my constant companion wherever I go. He makes me laugh, and amazes me with his personality.

​He is  very quick leaner, too. He knows if he goes outside he gets a "cookie." Well, in the first two hours of being up, he has asked to go outside twice. He wanted to go once more and sniff for the cat, but I told him no.

​I know my blog is about getting older. And I think a pet of some sort is a great reward for an older person. Caring for them give us a purpose and loving them helps loneliness. I know I am much happier because I got this little guy.

I lost my last dog over a year ago, and I was feeling funny for a while, asking myself those awful questions: Why am I here, What is my purpose,, etc. I never had children and I am not really close to my  brother or his family. Riley answered those questions and has had made me feel like I am the most important person on earth.