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By Karah Britton

The sunrise in the morning against the walls of my kennel always tells me today is a new day. It’s one of my favorite things to watch.

I hear that whistle of the human machine rolling by on the tracks. It’s louder than all of us, and we try our best to bark along with it like we are part of the show.

I like to look for the bright side of things here at the Burbank Animal Shelter. A dog’s got to find ways to pass the time. I wish I always had a tennis ball in here. I’m really good at fetch. Like…really good. Not to brag, but I can go back and forth as long as you’ll let me.

I’m a big girl, 70 pounds of a good time. 6 years old, so I’m as wise as I am smart!

I’ve been here a long time. Two years! That’s long enough that I know how it goes when people walk past my kennel. I wag my tail. I try to look my best. I clean up my drool in my water bowl before anyone notices. I even got a nice new collar to show how ready I am.

But sometimes they keep walking.

I get it. Smaller dogs, younger dogs, puppies…they get a lot of attention. I’m a big Labrador Retriever/Mastiff mix with a lot of love to give. Look, I’m no spring chicken, but I’ve also seen much older dogs find homes. So, I’m waiting for my turn.

I’ve stayed in a foster homes, and they said I was a couch dog. I liked that. I really like couches.

When I’m not playing fetch, I’m happy just being home with my person. That’s my favorite thing, just being close.

I also should say I like being the only dog in the home. I want all my love in one place. Other dogs make me nervous, and bikes too. So, I do best when things are calm and steady. I can’t tell you how many times dogs pass by my kennel and they get smart- mouthed with me. Hazing, bragging about going to the yard before I get to. Trying to insult Bertha. Not cool. I’ll bark back! So, yes, only dog in the home please.

I’ve had some time time to dream up my ideal home. I don’t need anything flashy or fancy. Just a place that I feel loved, can play, and feel safe. I promise I love my people hard once I trust them.

I get to go on little outings once a week with a volunteer friend. I love those days. Grass is my favorite thing in the whole world. I don’t think I can explain it properly except to say it feels like freedom under my paws.

I can’t wait for more of that.

I was told every pot has a lid. I don’t know what a pot is…or a lid, but I know my human is out there somewhere, and eventually we’ll find each other.

They feed me really well here at the shelter. I get excited when the sliding door is closed and hear the food go in my bowl. Then opening it like the element of surprise. Freshly made, all just for me. I want head scratches, tennis balls, and to be told I’m a good girl. I know my human will wonder where I’ve been all their life…and vice versa.

If you think I might be your girl, come meet me. Let’s take our time. Let’s earn each other’s trust.

And then…throw the ball.

Come meet Bertha at the Burbank Animal Shelter. She’s been waiting for over two years. You can also pick up a free copy of Bertha’s Coloring book in the lobby of the Burbank Animal Shelter.