If I were a Beagle, I would devote my life to ending anti-Beagle propaganda.
If I were a Beagle, I would not be able to count how many times guests came to the shelter and looked at me and said “How cute! But too noisy!” or “They are good for hunting, but they do not make good pets”.
If I were a Beagle, I would walk over to my kennel door and call over these misinformed people and tell them that not only am I cute, but I am no noisier than any other dog in the shelter. The thing is, when a Beagle has something to say, we want to make sure that everyone can hear. Us Beagles do not make small talk – if we are barking, there is something the whole neighborhood should be aware of.
If I were a Beagle, I would further explain that there are few dogs that are better suited for life in a family. Beagles are devoted, loyal, brave and loving and make excellent companions for most families. We are the perfect size for children to pal around with. We love to take walks and be part of your life. It is common (and heartbreaking) knowledge, that Beagles are among the most desired breed of dogs to be used in laboratories because we are compact, adjust easily to confinement, and no matter what you do to a Beagle, our temperament is such that we will still give you a lick on the nose. We have never given up on people because Beagles are the eternal optimists of the dog world.
If I were a Beagle, I would readily admit that we do have some quirks. Once we get our nose on the ground and pick up the trail of a squirrel or rabbit, we can excitedly run to find them, even if our person might be calling our name. We tend to gain weight easily, so if you are a couch potato, a Beagle might be an early warning sign that you need to get up and get some exercise. We also shed, but not as bad as some breeds. Fortunately, we love to sit on your lap for a good brushing.
If I were a Beagle, I would sum up our conversation by saying that Beagles spend way too long in the shelter because people believe the bad press about Beagles. If you see a Beagle in a shelter, take a few moments to take a look into our trademark big, brown and beautiful Beagle eyes. These eyes were specially developed to be so deep and expressive that you might decide to give me a chance to prove what a great companion that I would make for you.
If I were a Beagle, I would not let you down, because a Beagle exists only to make people happy.
