I couldn’t leave him behind, and he wouldn’t let go of my leg.

I went to Walmart just to grab cat litter, but as I pulled into the parking lot, I saw a large, scruffy dog sitting by the cart return, looking like he was waiting for someone who never came back.

I approached slowly, and he didn’t pull away. Instead, he leaned against me and gave me a “leg hug” with his paw, as if to say, “You’re safe now.”

Animal control had already been contacted. Someone had dropped him off earlier, and he had no collar or chip. When they tried to take him, he refused to leave, looking back at me for help.

I wasn’t ready for a dog, but I couldn’t leave him. When I asked what would happen if no one claimed him, the officer said he might be euthanized in 72 hours. That hit me hard.

Without thinking, I asked if I could take him home. The officer was surprised, but I knew I had to do it. I named him Rufus during the drive home.

Rufus became the easiest roommate I could ask for. Sure, there were some challenges—like eating a whole loaf of bread or chewing up my shoes—but the joy he brought was worth it. He was always there for me, wagging his tail and showing me love, and eventually, he became a true member of the family.