Dog #52: Hazel
Breed unknown
Bagan, Myanmar
Hazel, like many street dogs, has learned that by hanging around temples, stupas, and monasteries they are likely to receive handouts from monks and soft-hearted tourists like myself. Although I did not feed Hazel, Jen and I gave her abundant attention which she seemed to crave as much as kibble.
When I called her over to me, she immediately placed her hurt paw in my hand which she licked and promptly fell on her back wriggling for belly rubs.
We fell for her so hard that I went back to the hotel and searched online on how to bring a stray puppy back to the United States. Sadly, it would be too daunting, long, and expensive of a rescue which broke both our hearts.
There was just something powerful about this little gal; she was genuine, sweet, and very special. Editing these photos and writing her bio broke my heart and continues to brings tears to my eyes. Jen named her “Hazel” as we thought it proper she be given a name and identity rather than describe her as “another street dog.” Thinking about her now, I wish I would have tried harder to rescue her.